Dinner On A Dime

Hearty Pumpkin Muffins

2011-10-05T12:22:00.000-07:00

My friend brought me one of these muffins on Monday, fresh out of the oven and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. I couldn't stop thinking about it so I harassed her via texts until she finally gave me the recipe because they were THAT good. I made them this morning and they are even better than I remember, if that's possible. They are not dense and heavy, like typical pumpkin goodies can be. They are light and fluffy, yet still hearty enough to keep your tummy happy. I am so happy to share this recipe with the world wide web.

Hearty Pumpkin Muffins

Yield: About 36 muffins Prep Time: 10 minutes Bake Time: 20-25 minutes

1 cup canola or vegetable oil
2 cups granulated sugar
2 cups pumpkin puree
5 eggs
2 (4-serving) boxes instant coconut cream pudding
2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
2/3 cup quick cooking oats
1 cup walnuts (optional)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line muffin tins with cupcake liners or spray with cooking spray.

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl or mixing stand, combine vegetable oil, sugar, pumpkin, eggs and pudding. Mix until well blended. Add the small bowl of dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture and mix until the flour is fully incorporated. Fold in oats, walnuts and chocolate chips. Scoop mixture into muffin tins (about 2/3 full) and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool 5-10 minutes, then you can devour them ravenously, like I did.

Mmmmmm.... it's finally starting to feel like Fall around here!

Actually Easy Crock Pot Mexi-Chicken

2011-06-20T10:56:00.000-07:00

The picture is not much to look at, but I only thought of photographing this delicious dish after I'd eaten some. For Father's Day, I'd totally planned on steaks but forgot to actually go to the store to buy them. So, yesterday morning, I frantically searched for a frozen chicken-in-the-crock pot recipe that had ingredients that were already in my pantry/fridge. It took a while but I finally found this awesome recipe. I just had to tweak it a little to account for the ingredients I didn't have. So I'm going to give you the recipe I actually used as opposed to the one that was actually required. It turned out great and was actually easy, not The Food Network easy.

4-5 frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 can black beans

1 can Mexicorn

1/2 jar salsa

6-8 oz cream cheese

Put frozen chicken, drained black beans, drained mexicorn, and salsa in the crock pot.

Cook in the crock pot on low for 8 hours, or high for 4-5 hours. Until chicken is tender.

Add cream cheese (set on top) and let it sit 1/2 before serving.

I mixed it together before I served it.

All I know is you can't beat throwing frozen chicken, beans, corn and salsa in the crock pot before church. It's pretty much the recipe I've been searching for my entire life.

Try it. You'll love it.

P.S. For the actual recipe, you use a regular can of corn and full jar of salsa. That's it.

Toasted Coconut Chocolate Chunk Cookies

2011-02-27T18:14:00.001-08:00

(Picture courtesy of Cooking Light)

I've been going through my magazines and picking out recipes that I'd like to try. I knew my parents were coming for dinner and my mom loves coconut, so I thought these would be a great dessert. They were enjoyed by all! Definitely use dark chocolate as suggested (I used a Lindt bar) because the sweetness of the coconut (and the brown sugar) makes them plenty sweet. Also, it doesn't make a ton (maybe 15?), which is probably good, since they're addictive!

Ingredients:
1 cup flaked, sweetened coconut
4.5 ounces all-purpose flour (about 1 cup)
1/2 tea baking powder
1/4 tea baking soda
1/8 tea salt
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tea vanilla extract
1 large egg
2 ounces dark chocolate (70% cacao), chopped
Cooking spray

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Arrange coconut in a single layer on a cookie sheet.
3. Bake at 350 degrees for 3.5 minutes. Stir coconut and cook for an additional 3.5 minutes and then set aside to cool.
4. Weigh or lightly sppon flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl; stir with a whisk until blended.
5. Place sugar and butter in a large bowl; beat with a mixer at medium speed until well blended.
6. Beat in vanilla and egg.
7. Add flour mixture, beating at low speed just until combined.
8. Stir in toasted coconut and chocolate.
9. Drop by level tablespoons 2 inches apart onto baking sheets coated with cooking spray.
10. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes or until bottoms of cookies just begin to brown.
11. Remove from pan, and cool completely on wire racks.

Chocolate Cherry Cookies

2011-02-27T13:38:00.000-08:00

If you normally shy away from cherries, I'd try these anyway. I gave these to two people who said they normally don't like cherries but they both really enjoyed them! I got this recipe from the Cooking Light Magazine, so it'd actually relatively healthy...if you can keep yourself from eating the whole batch all by yourself. ;)

Ingredients:
1.5 ounces all-purpose flour (about 1/3 cup)
1.5 ounces whole-wheat flour (about 1/3 cup)
1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 tea baking soda
1/2 tea salt
6 T. unsalted butter
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1 cup dried cherries
1 tea vanilla extract
1 large egg, lightly beaten
3 ounces bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
Cooking spray

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Weigh or lightly spoon flours into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Combine flours and next 3 ingredients (through salt) in a large bowl. Stir with a whisk.
3. Melt butter in a small bowl on low in microwave (or on the stove, if you prefer).
4. Add brown sugar to butter and stir until smooth.
5. Add sugar mixture to flour mixture and beat with a mixer on medium speed until well blended.
6. Add cherries, vanilla, and egg: beat until combined.
7. Fold in chocolate.
8. Drop dough by tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart onto baking sheets coated with cooking spray.
9. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes (until edges brown).
10. Cool on pans 3 minutes or until almost firm. Remove cookies from pans; cool on wire racks.

Healthy Cookies

2011-02-20T17:05:00.001-08:00

1 stick butter
3/4 cup apple sauce
3/4 cup white sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
3 egg whites
1 tsp vanilla
Mix

1 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup unbleached white flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 salt
2 1/2 cups oatmeal
1 1/2 cups oat bran
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/4 cup flax seed grain
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
Mix
Add 1/4 cup white choc. chips and or semi sweet/ dark choc. chunks
1/2 cup dried cranberries mix both dry and wet ingredients together with chips/berries.
I do it with hands because it's easier- shape into golf ball size and bake at 350 for 12-15 min.

Pork Tenderloins with Onions & Apples

2011-02-20T17:00:00.001-08:00

I had this first at my moms, and was suprised at how much I liked it. It's super simple and inexpensive.

Pork Tenderloins with Onion & Apples

Sherry Base:
1 c whipping cream
1/3 c. cream sherry
1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
2 tsp. prepared horseradish
1 tsp salt
Combine in Bowl.

4 pork tenderloin
2 Tbsp. butter
Seasoned salt
Pepper
2 large onions
2 large apples (Golden Delicious are suggested- but I have used others)

Paint tenderloins with Sherry Baste and season tenderloins with seasoning salt and pepper. Preheat oven at 425. Roast tenderloins until done, about 35 minutes (take out when meat thermometer reaches 150)

Meanwhile, melt butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add onion and apples and cook, stirring often, until the onions are soft. Add sherry baste and bring to a boil. (This can be done ahead of time and reheated).

Slice meat on the diagonal and serve with apple & onion sauce.
Serve with potatoes or rice.

Cream of Potato Soup

2010-10-25T17:48:00.000-07:00

This soup has been a staple in my family for as long as I can remember. My grandma and mom used to make it for us to soothe an upset stomach or counter an oncoming cold. Now I make it as the ultimate comfort food. It's nothing like all of the Loaded Baked Potato soups out there. It's simple, quick and incredibly delicious. Enjoy!

Cream of Potato Soup

5-6 medium Russett potatoes, peeled and diced

2 stalks celery, sliced thin

1/2 onion, chopped

1 cup heavy cream, Half & Half or whole milk

1 Tbsp. butter

Garlic Salt

Onion Salt

Lemon Pepper

Mashed Potato Flakes (optional)

Place potatoes, celery and onions in a large pot and add just enough water to cover. Bring to a boil and let simmer until the potatoes are tender enough to mash, about 20 minutes. Remove the pot from heat and mash the potatoes with a potato masher. At this point, if the soup seems too runny, you can either add mashed potato flakes or return the pot to low heat and let the soup thicken. I usually let it thicken for another 5-10 minutes over med-low heat. Turn the heat to low and add the cream, butter, salts and lemon pepper. All of this is done to taste, so keep tasting until it's just right!

Serve warm with bread and butter. You feel better already, don't you?

Chicken Enchiladas with Red Sauce

2010-10-25T17:13:00.000-07:00

These enchiladas remind me of my Arizona home. The sauce is not red enchilada sauce, rather a mixture of taco and tomato sauces. It's a delicious combination and a simple meal to throw together. Serve it up with this Spanish Rice and lots of sour cream and guacamole. You won't want to miss out on this favorite of ours!

Chicken Enchiladas with Red Sauce
4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 stalks celery, coarsely chopped
2 large carrots, coarsely chopped
1/2 onion, chopped
2-1/2 to 3 cups grated cheese (Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, Cheddar all work great)
24 corn tortillas
1-2 cups vegetable oil
2 small cans tomato sauce
1 bottle La Victoria Red Taco Sauce (I know this is sold in Utah and Arizona. It is a tomato-based taco sauce, not a chunky salsa in any way. One bottle is 15 ounces, and I prefer the mild flavor.)

1. Boil chicken breasts with celery, carrots, and onion for 30 minutes, or until chicken is done.
2. Take chicken out of broth and put on a plate to cool. Do not discard broth, reserve at least 2 cups of it for later.
3. While chicken is cooling, fill sauce pot up with 1 inch of oil and heat. Dip one corn tortilla in the oil at a time, softening it by submerging it for only a few seconds. You still want it pliable and definitely NOT crispy. Drain softened tortillas on paper towels.
4. In a medium bowl, mix the 2 cans of tomato sauce with the entire bottle of taco sauce. Combine well and set aside.
5. Begin shredding chicken into small pieces, getting rid of any fat, veins or gristle.
6. Put freshly shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl and combine with 2 cups of the grated cheese. Add 1 cup (or more) of the reserved broth to the chicken/cheese mixture and mix well. The mixture should be held together well but not soupy.
7. Preaheat the oven to 350 degrees and spray the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish.
8. Spoon a little bit of chicken/cheese mixture into a tortilla. Roll up the tortilla and place it in the pan, edge down so the tortillas stay closed. Continue until the pan is full. If you have extra chicken/cheese, you can quickly make more tortillas or save it for tacos some other time!
9. Once the pan is full of enchiladas, pour the sauce over the tortillas, making sure to cover well.
10. Sprinkle remaining grated cheese over the enchiladas and bake for 30 minutes, uncovered. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, cilantro and/or Spanish Rice for a complete meal.

This recipe can easily be halved, or you can make the full meal and freeze half of it before baking.

Spanish Rice

2010-10-25T16:51:00.000-07:00

This is my very favorite version of Spanish Rice. It can stand on its own as a main meal or serve as a side to any Mexican dish. The flavor is unique and better than any restaurant rice that's out there!

Spanish Rice

4-5 slices of bacon, uncooked

1 bell pepper, finely chopped

1 onion, finely chopped

1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked

1 (8oz) can tomato sauce

2 cups water

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until just before it turns crispy. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels. Do not drain the grease! Over med-high heat, add the rice, bell pepper and onion to the bacon grease and sauté until the onion is translucent. Add the tomato sauce, water, and bacon (crumbled or cut) and bring to a boil, then turn heat to low and cover. Simmer 20-25 minutes over low heat until rice is done.

We love to eat this with shredded cheese on top and sour cream on the side, or with Red Chicken Enchiladas. Delicious!

Marinated Cherry Tomato Salad

2010-09-13T12:25:00.000-07:00

I have an over abundance of cherry tomatoes in my garden this year, so I decided to give this recipe a whirl. It was extra delicious and I loved every last drop.

4 cups halved cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup vegetable oil (I used olive oil)
3 tablespoons cider vinegar (I used pear infused vinegar, which added a really yummy flavor, but used what you have.)
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons white sugar

In a small bowl or cup measure and mix together oil, vinegar, herbs, salt and sugar.
Pour dressing over cherry tomatoes in a serving dish and gently stir to coat. Chill for at least 2 hours. Gently stir from bottom to top, coating all tomatoes, before serving. Enjoy!

Potato Soup with Apples and Brie

2010-05-12T10:12:00.000-07:00

It's not much to look at, but it's really yummy. Instead of pureeing mine, I smashed the apples with a potato masher and then some of the potatoes. I like some potato chunks in mine. I also served mine in these yummy bread bowls!

Ingredients:

1 chopped onion

1/4 cup sliced leeks (whites only)

4 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and quartered

2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth (or vegetarian to make it a vegetarian soup)

1 bay leaf

1/2 tea salt

1/4 dried thyme

3 cups fat-free evaporated milk (I used a mix of evaporated and regular)

6 small potatoes, peeled and sliced

4 ounces brie cheese, cut into small cubes

Directions:

1. Spray a soup pot with cooking spray.

2. Add the onion, leeks and quartered apples.

3. Saute over medium heat until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.

4. Add the chicken broth, bay leaf, salt and thyme and bring to a boil.

5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.

6. Remove bay leaf, turn off heat and set mixture aside.

7. While the broth mixture is cooking, combine the milk and potatoes in a separate saucepan.

8. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until potatoes are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.

9. Pour the potato mixture into the soup pot; stir to mix.

10. In a blender or food processor, puree the soup in batches until smooth, adding pieces of brie cheese while pureeing.

11. Return the pureed batch to the soup pot and heat until warmed through.

Paula Deen's Jambalaya

2010-02-25T21:49:00.000-08:00

I watched the Food Network last week, several days in a row, and got some great ideas from Paula Deen and Giada de Laurentiis. When I saw Paula make this dish, I knew I had to try it. It was so simple and quick and looked fabulous. I was not disappointed!

Jambalaya
from Paula Deen

Jambalaya mix (see recipe below)
2-1/2 cups water
1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
1/2 pound fully cooked smoked sausage, cut into 1/4-inch slices
1/2 to 3/4 pound medium, fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined

Jambalaya Mix:
1 cup long grain white rice
1 Tbsp. dried minced onion
1 Tbsp. dried parsley flakes
1 Tbsp. beef bouillon granules
1/2 tsp. dried thyme leaves
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp. salt
1 bay leaf

In a dutch oven or large pot, combine mix, water, tomatoes, tomato sauce, and smoked sausage. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Cover, reduce and let simmer 20 minutes. Add shrimp and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until shrimp are pink.

*I used about 1/8 tsp. of cayenne pepper because we don't like it too spicy. You can use less or more, depending on how well you can handle the heat!
*I used the amount of sausage called for, but next time I'll just use the full 14oz. that comes in the package. We like meat at our house.
*My 2-year-old boys polished their bowls. It's always a bonus when a good meal is also kid-friendly.

Salad de Maison

2010-02-23T19:25:00.001-08:00

My cousin prepared and served this salad at my baby shower in Arizona back in 2007. I am not kidding when I say that I have been thinking about it ever since! I finally decided to make it tonight and wow. WOW. This is so flavorful, and it's great as a side salad or main dish. The combination of lemon and garlic in the dressing reminds me a lot of Italy for some reason. That just tells you how incredible the flavor is! Enjoy!

Salad de Maison

Dressing:

Juice from 1 lemon (or 2 Tablespoons Pure Lemon Juice)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt (I used sea salt)

3/4 cup canola or vegetable oil

Combine lemon juice, garlic, pepper and salt. Blend well, then add oil in a small stream, all the while blending rapidly with a fork, until all the oil has been added. (I used my Magic Bullet, or a food processor would also work). Let stand for 3 hours.

Salad:

2 heads romaine lettuce

4-5 strips bacon

1 cup swiss cheese, coarsely shredded

2 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half

1/3 cup parmesan cheese

1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted

Croutons

Cut bacon into 2-inch strips and cook in frying pan. Drain. Combine lettuce, tomatoes, swiss cheese, bacon, almonds and parmesan cheese together in a large salad bowl. Toss together with dressing. Garnish with croutons. Serve immediately.

White Bean Chicken Chili

2010-01-08T13:46:00.000-08:00

This is a must try. It is really yummy and easy too. It is kind of like Taco Soup just a little more refined.

2 1/2 to 3 cups water
1tsp. lemon pepper
1 tsp. cumin seed - if you can't find it, just add more cumin
4 chicken breasts

Simmer above ingredients in soup pot for 20 minutes until chicken is cooked.

Saute together:

1 garlic clove
1 cup minced white onion

When chicken is done, take out and cut into bite size pieces. DO NOT THROW OUT WATER! Add the following to the pot of water including the juice of

2 cans white NOrthern beans (15 oz. cans)
2 cans white shoepeg corn
1 can diced green chilies (4 oz.) add more if you like it hot.
1 lime- juice it and put in pot- more if needed
1 tsp. ground cumin.

Heat, but don't boil. Serve over corn ships and grated jack cheese. Enjoy!

Marshmallow Popcorn Bars

2009-12-07T20:08:00.000-08:00

I made these popcorn bars for our FHE treat tonight. It was a great choice because they were easy to make, I had all the ingredients on hand and everyone enjoyed them. Serve them up with some hot cocoa and you have yourself a fast and festive treat.

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for dish
1/2 cup popcorn kernels or one 3.5-ounce package plain microwave popcorn
1 10-ounce bag marshmallows

Butter a 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Pop the popcorn according to the package directions.

Melt the butter and marshmallows in a large saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring until smooth, 5 to 7 minutes.

Fold in the popcorn until coated. Press into the prepared dish and let sit for 10 minutes before cutting into 24 bars.

**The bars are best served within 6 hours but can be made and stored at room temperature, covered, up to 1 day in advance.

Enjoy!

Chocolate Banana Cream Pie

2009-11-10T12:58:00.001-08:00

Made this today for Relief Society Meeting tonight. Just call me Suzy Homemaker.

Ingredients:

1 (9 inch) pie crust
2 (1 oz) squares smisweet chocolate
1 tbsp milk
1 tbsp butter
2 bananas, sliced
1 1/2 cups cold milk
1 (3.5 oz) package instant banana cream or vanilla pudding mix
1 1/2 c shredded coconut
1 1/2 c whipped topping

Directions:

1. Combine chocolate, 1 tbsp milk, and butter in medium, microwave safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1 - 1/2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds. Stir until chocolate is completely melted. Spread evenly in pie crust.

2. Arrange banana slices over chocolate.

3. Pour 1 1/2 cups milk inot large bowl. Add pudding mix; beat with wire whisk for 2 minutes. Stir in coconut. Spoon over banana slices in crust.

4. Spread whipped topping over pie. Refrigerate 4 hours or until set. Store in refrigerator.

Serves 8

Enjoy!

Famous French Bread

2009-10-16T11:20:00.000-07:00

This recipe is from my friend Kathleen. I am not much of a baker so I was a bit hesitant. However, the bread turned out great and it was relatively easy (even without a mixer). So if I can do it, you can too! Enjoy!

2 1/2 cups very warm water
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon salt
2 tablespoons cooking oil
6 cups flour
2 packages of yeast (or approximately 5 teaspoons)

Measure out water and add yeast and set aside (also add part of the sugar). In mixing bowl add all other ingredients as well as the yeast mixture. Stir for 2-3 minutes and then turn off mixer and let dough stand for 10 minutes and then mix again/ Repeat this process 5 times. Turn dough onto floured board and divide into two parts. Roll each part of dough into rectangle about 9"x12" and roll up like a jello roll, rolling from the long side. Pinch edge of loaf to seal the dough. Arrange lengthwise on a cookie sheet. Cover lightly; rise 30 minutes. With sharp knife, cut three gashes at an angle on top and bursh entire surface with slightly beaten egg. May sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake immediately at 400 degrees for 25-30 minutes.

Tacos with Chicken and Black Beans

2009-10-06T17:12:00.000-07:00

This is one of our favorites. I got the recipe from my friend Mary and we have enjoyed it time and time again.

2 chicken breast, no skin, no bone, cut in 1/2-inch cubes
4 teaspoons fresh lime juice, divided
2 tablespoons olive oil (more if necessary), divided
4 green onions, thinly sliced
2 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
3/4 cup cooked black beans or 15 oz. can, darined
1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup red pepper
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
1 pinch cayenne pepper
10 fresh corn tortilla shells, best cooked in hot oil
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, or Monterey Jack
1/2 cup sour cream

Stir 2 teaspoons lime juice and 2 teaspoons olive oil to coat chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a heavy skillet on medium-high heat. Stir-fry chicken for 1 minute until seared; remove with a slotted spoon, cover and keep warm.

Add 1 tablespoon oil to pan. Saute onions and garlic for 2 minutes until softened. Add beans, tomatoes, red pepper, and jalapeno. Saute 2 minutes to warm, shaking pan.

Gently stir in remaining 2 teaspoons lime juice, salt, cilantro and chicken. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until warm. Taste, add cayenne and adjust seasonings. Serve in warm, crisp taco shells with cheese and sour cream. Buen Provecho!

Tropical Chicken Salad Sandwiches

2009-09-29T07:20:00.000-07:00

I think these are the kind of things that taste better than they look. I wasn't sure about them at first, but the mix is really yummy! The original recipe calls for a couple things I didn't add (shredded coconut and nuts), but I don't love either. It also says to put the mix on croissants, but I went for a healthier whole-wheat pita option. I think it was great that way! I was able to make 8 pita halves with some mix leftover (I probably could have done 10, but I ran out of pitas). This is easy, peasy, too!

Ingredients:

1 large can chicken (drained)

1 large can mandarin oranges (drained)

1/2 cup crushed pineapple

1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)

1/2 cup nuts (optional)

1 T. milk

1/2 cup mayo (I used lite and it worked great)

1/2 tea. garlic salt

1/2 tea. sugar

Directions:

1. Put all ingredients in a bowl.

2. Mix well.

3. Serve on croissants (or in pita pockets!).

4. Or, save in the refrigerator until ready to put into sandwiches.

Crisp-and-Creamy Baked Chicken

2009-09-18T22:49:00.000-07:00

So so yummy. Break out the Shake'N'Bake!

3-4 small boneless skinless chicken breasts

1/2-1 pouch Shake'N'Bake Extra Crispy

2 cups instant white rice, uncooked

1/2-1 can condensed cream of celery soup

1/4 cup milk

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

PREHEAT over to 400 degrees. Coat chicken with coating mix as directed on package; place in greased 9X9 baking dish.

BAKE 20 min or until chicken is cooked through. Meanwhile, cook rice as directed on package.

BEAT soup and milk with wire whisk until well blended. Pour evenly over chicken; sprinkle with cheese. Bake an additional 5 min. Serve with rice.

Makes 4 servings.

Calfornia Grilled Veggie Sandwich

2009-09-18T12:29:00.000-07:00

I'm always on the lookout for good vegetarian recipes. This one is great. I've made it a couple of times now - including for my sister and my dinner co-op - and it has been thoroughly enjoyed every time!

I think the sauce really makes this sandwich what it is. The bread helps, too. This recipe is slightly adapted from a highly-rated one I got on All Recipes. The original calls for foccacia bread which I've tried and is good. I prefer (homemade) ciabatta because the flavor of the sauce and veggies really comes out that way. You can also swap veggies (add mushroom or eggplant) and cheeses (feta, provolone, Parmesan...) to suit your desires.

Ingredients:
Sauce -
1/4 cup light mayonnaise
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Sandwich -
1 T. olive oil
1 red bell peppers, sliced
2 small zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
1 small yellow squash, sliced
Good bread (foccacia, ciabatta, etc...)
Your choice of cheese (optional; I've used Parmesan and Provolone)

Directions:
1. In a bowl mix sauce ingredients (mayo, garlic, lemon juice); refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Preheat grill or broiler.
3. In a separate bowl, toss veggies with olive oil until all are coated.
4. Grill or broil, turning as necessary and watching carefully until veggies are done to your likely.
5. Assemble sandwich: put sauce on bread, top with veggies, add cheese (if desired).
6. Enjoy the vegetarian goodness!

Baked Oatmeal

2009-09-18T06:24:00.000-07:00

Breakthrough! My 2-year-old ate oatmeal today! Granted, it wasn't the healthiest version of oatmeal, but he got eggs, heart-healthy oatmeal, and calories. It took some time to get him to try it, but he enjoyed it once he did! My husband also gave it rave reviews and he just took a little portion with him on the way to school. Give it a shot for a little variety in your morning breakfast! PS: I got the recipe from the My Kitchen Cafe website.

Ingredients:

6 cups oatmeal (you can use quick or rolled)

2 cups brown sugar

2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 cup oil

2 cups milk

4 beaten eggs

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Mix dry ingredients in large bowl.

3. Add wet ingredients and stir.

4. Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 pan.

5. Bake 20-25 minutes, until toothpick comes out clean.

6. Let sit 5 to 10 minutes to cool before cutting.

7. Serve with milk in a bowl, if desired.

Notes: I halved mine and put it in an 8x8. Mine also took about 15 minutes longer to get done in the middle, but my oven is crap. If you don't wait for it to cool a bit, it will come out in pieces, which is fine if you want to eat it like regular oatmeal in a bowl with milk. It's yummy either way!

Easy Spaghetti Bolognese

2009-08-05T09:53:00.000-07:00

This is a super easy and quick recipe for those nights when you just don't have the energy to think about dinner. ;) All of my family enjoyed it.

Easy Spaghetti Bolognese

1/2 lb. spaghetti, uncooked

1 lb. lean ground beef

1 cup chopped onions

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can Italian-style stewed tomatoes, undrained

3 Tbsp. tomato paste

4 Tbsp. Zesty Italian Dressing
3/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese

COOK pasta as directed on package.Meanwhile, brown meat with onions and garlic in large nonstick skillet. Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste and dressing. Bring to boil; cook on medium-low heat 5 min. or until heated through, stirring occasionally.

DRAIN pasta; place in large bowl. Add meat sauce; mix lightly. Sprinkle with cheese.

*Found this on the Kraft website.

Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

2009-06-01T06:38:00.000-07:00

I had Brian make me these pancakes for Mother's Day and then I was craving them again over the weekend so I thought I'd post the recipe. I changed it only slightly from the original recipe via You Got Served. I think regular maple syrup kind of ruins these, but that's the way Brian likes them. I've tried them with regular and lemon glazes (powdered sugar and milk), but they're good on their own too!

Ingredients:

3/4 Cup Flour (try whole wheat, for extra benefits!)
1 tea. Baking Powder
1/2 tea. Salt
3 T Sugar
2 Eggs
1/3 Cup Milk
1/3 Cup Canola Oil
1 Cup Ricotta Cheese (I used part-skim)
Juice and Zest of 1 Lemon

Directions:

1. Preheat griddle or skillet to medium heat.

2. Combine dry ingredients.

3. In a separate bowl whisk the wet ingredients.

4. Whisk the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients.

5. Add lemon juice and zest.

6. Pour approximately 1/4 c batter on griddle or skillet. (I let them cook slowly.)

7. Cook pancakes until golden brown, flipping once.

Apple Muffins

2009-04-20T14:05:00.001-07:00

This is a great recipe if you have apples that are getting old and you don't know what to do with them!

Sift together:
2 cups all purpose flour (you could also use 1 cup whole wheat flour and 1 cup white flour, or 2/3 cup oat flour and 1-1/3 cup white flour. Grind 1 cup oatmeal in a blender for oat flour)
1/4 cup sugar
3 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp salt

Stir in:
1/2 cup finely chopped apple

In another bowl, combine:
1 beaten egg
3/4 cup milk
1/4 cup canola oil

Add liquid to dry ingredients; stir. Fill 12 muffin cups.

Mix 3 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg

Coat 1 cup sliced apple with the above sugar mixture. Press apple slices into batter in cups. Bake at 400 F for 20 to 25 minutes.

Vegetarian Baked Ziti

2009-03-14T12:41:00.000-07:00

I made this yesterday for a get-together at my house and it was a hit!

Sorry I had no time to get a pic of it.

Enjoy!

1 large egg, beaten

1 tbs garlic powder (or to taste)

1 tbs oregano

1 tbs black pepper

1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

16 oz. cottage cheese or ricotta cheese

12 oz. grated mozzarella cheese

16-24 oz. spaghetti sauce

1lb ziti prepared as per box directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Combine first 7 ingredients in a mixing bowl.

Spray bottom and sides of casserole dish with Pam or other oil spray.

Spread about 2 tbs of sauce on the bottom of the casserole dish.

Layer 1/2 of the ziti, cheese mixture, sauce. Repeat.

Top with remaining sauce and some grated mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

Bake covered with aluminum foil until bubbly on the sides, about 40 minutes.

Serves 6-8

Red River Beef Stroganoff

2009-02-19T19:48:00.000-08:00

A couple of years ago, I was on the hunt for a Stroganoff recipe that did not call for Cream of Mushroom soup (I can't handle that stuff!). I found this recipe on AllRecipes, slightly altered it and fell in love. The basil gives it a really nice flavor. I have only ever made it with venison, but I'm sure it's delicious either way.

Red River Beef Stroganoff

2 lbs. sirloin steak (or venison), cut into strips

1/4 c. all purpose flour

1/4 c. butter

1 onion, chopped

1 can beef broth

1 small jar mushrooms

1 tsp. dried basil leaves

1 T. Worchestershire sauce

1 c. sour cream

Salt and pepper to taste

Cooked rice or egg noodles

Melt half of butter in large skillet over medium heat; add onions and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. While onions cook, put the flour in a bowl, add salt and pepper, and dredge meat in the flour. When onions are translucent, remove from pan and set aside. Place the remaining butter in the skillet and add the meat, browning on all sides. Then add the broth, mushrooms, basil, Worchestershire sauce and onions. Bring to a boil and cook until reduced, about 5 minutes. Stir in the sour cream just before serving. Serve over white rice or egg noodles.

Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies

2009-02-14T18:16:00.000-08:00

I made these sugar cookies for Valentine's Day and I really, really like them! I do, however, love cream cheese. You do have to refrigerate them - and that can be a turn-off to some people - but I think they are well worth it! You should give them a try!

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, room temp (use real butter...I had to use 1/4 cup of salted butter, and it turned out fine)
1 - 8 oz. cream cheese, room temp
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. almond extract (I omitted this b/c I didn't have any)
4 cups flour (I may have added up to an extra 1/2 cup)
1 tsp. baking powder

Directions:
1. In a large bowl, combine butter, sugar, cream cheese, almond and vanilla extracts, and egg. Beat until smooth.
2. Stir in flour and baking powder until well blended.
3. Chill the dough 8 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough 1/3 at a time to 1/8 inch thickness, refrigerating remaining dough until ready to use.
6. Cut dough into desired shapes with lightly floured cookie cutters.
7. Place 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
8. Bake for 7 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven (mine needed to go a bit longer), or until light and golden brown.
9. Cool cookies completely before frosting.

St. Valentine's Baked Ziti

2009-02-14T08:18:00.001-08:00

The guaranteed way into your Valentine's heart!

1 lb dry ziti pasta
1/2 to 1 whole onion, chopped (personal preference on amount, I used 1/2)
1 lb lean ground beef
2 (26 oz) jars spaghetti sauce (traditional Hunts is 98 cents each at Walmart)
6-8 slices Provolone cheese
1 1/2 cups light sour cream (tastes the same)
6 oz Mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

1. Bring a large pot of water and about 1 tbps Extra Virgin Olive Oil to a boil. Add ziti pasta, cook about 8 minutes; drain.

2. In a large skillet, brown beef and onions over medium heat. Add spaghetti sauce and simmer 15 minutes.

3. Preheat oven to 350. Spray 9X13 dish with Pam. Layer in pan as follows:
1/2 of the ziti,
slices of Provolone cheese,
sour cream, evenly spread,
1/2 sauce mix,
remaining ziti,
1/2 Mozzarella cheese,
remaining sauce mix,
remaining Mozzarella cheese.
Top with grated Parmesan cheese.

4. Bake for 30 minutes or until all cheese are melted.

Total Prep time: 30 min
Total cook time 30 min
Serves 4-6

I promise you will not be disappointed in this recipe. If you or your valentine are somehow unsatisfied with this dish after following all the steps correctly, I will personally come to your home and cook it for you (as long as you live within a reasonable driving distance to me and you provide all the ingredients).

Happy Valentine's Day!

Sun-Dried Tomato Quiche

2009-02-03T17:19:00.000-08:00

This is another great recipe I found on one of the websites I mentioned in my previous post. It's a super easy, cheesy quiche so don't be intimidated! Especially good if you like sun-dried tomatoes.

Ingredients:

3/4 cup Swiss cheese, shredded

3/4 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded

2/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil)

2 T. finely diced onions

1 tea. Italian seasoning

1/2 tea. salt

4 eggs

1 cup half-and-half (I used fat free and it turned out fine)

3/4 cup milk (I used fat free here too)

1 T. flour

One 9-inch frozen pie crust

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

2. Bake the pie crust for 5 minutes.

3. Lower the oven temperature to 350 degrees.

4. In a large bowl, whisk all ingredients together.

5. Pour mixture into the crust.

6. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Slice into wedges and serve.

So Good Strawberry-Banana Bread

2009-02-03T17:04:00.000-08:00

I almost always have old bananas in my freezer. It seems like we never eat them fast enough and I always feel guilty throwing them away. (I'm slowly getting over that.) This is one of my favorite recipes for banana bread. It's so good and addictive! It's really not all that hard either. It makes a TON though, so it's a good recipe for sharing! (Or you can half it.)

Ingredients:
1 cup butter, softened (I used real butter, but I'm sure margarine works)
2 cups granulated sugar
2 cups ripe bananas (about 6 medium), mashed
4 eggs
1 tea salt
2 tea baking soda
3 cups flour
1 1/2 pounds frozen sliced strawberries, thawed (I used whole strawberries w/o sugar and sliced them myself)

Directions:
1. Grease 2 9x5-inch loaf pans.
2. Preaheat oven to 325 degrees.
3. In a larging mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar.
4. Incorporate the bananas in the sugar mix and scrape the sides of the bowl with a spatula.
5. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each one. Set aside
6. In another bowl, mix together the salt, baking soda, and flour.
7. Add the flour mixture to the banana mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
8. Add the strawberries.
9. Pour into prepared pans.
10. Bake for 60 to 75 minutes or until toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
11. Cool completely on a rack before inverting onto a plate.

Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas

2009-01-07T17:56:00.000-08:00

I made these tonight for our dinner co-op. (Cooking once a week - what a fabulous thing!) I got this picture and recipe from a chica in my ward who makes some amazing food. (Lady sounds too old and girl sounds too young.) She actually got this recipe from someone else. It's also on another blog. Obviously it's good. Don't let the chili powder scare you, it's not too spicy. The enchilada sauce is spicier, so I just got mild. It's easy too! The hardest part is shredding the chicken. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

Marinade -

6 tablespoons honey

5 tablespoons lime juice (1 large lime)

1 tablespoons chili powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 pound chicken, cooked and shredded

8-10 flour tortillas (I used whole wheat tortillas)

1 pound monterey jack cheese, shredded

16 ounces green enchilada sauce

1 cup heavy cream

Directions:

1. Whisk the first four ingredients and toss with shredded chicken in a Zip-loc bag.

2. Let it marinate for at least a 1/2 hour, but preferably a half day or so.

3. Pour about 1/2 cup enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9X13 baking pan.

4. Fill the tortillas with chicken, saving marinade, and shredded cheese, saving about 1 cup of cheese to sprinkle on top of enchiladas.

5. Put tortillas in 9x13 pan as you go.

6. Mix the remaining enchilada sauce with the cream and leftover marinade (if there is any).

7. Pour sauce on top of the enchiladas.

8. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.

9. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes until brown and crispy on top.

15 Minute Rice and Taco Skillet

2008-12-17T16:51:00.000-08:00

1 lb. ground beef
1 pkg. (1-1/4 oz.) Taco Seasoning Mix
2 cups water
2 cups instant white rice, uncooked
1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
2 cups shredded lettuce
1 large tomato, chopped

BROWN meat in large skillet; drain.

ADD seasoning mix and water; stir. Bring to boil.

STIR in rice. Sprinkle with cheese; cover. Simmer on low heat 5 min. Top with lettuce and tomato just before serving.

Serves about 4

German Pancakes or Crepes

2008-12-09T11:27:00.000-08:00

2 eggs
2 tablespoons white sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3/4 cup milk

1. Mix sugar and flour, then add milk and eggs. Beat until smooth. (Will be liquidy but that's ok.)

2. Heat large skillet over medium heat. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into pan then tilt the pan to achieve a round shape. Heat until golden, then flip and brown on other side. Serve immedieately with syrup & powdered sugar, or fresh berries & whipped cream.

Prep Time: 5 Minutes
Cook Time: 10 Minutes
Servings: About 4

This is the best recipe I've found for these to date. They are so yummy, even when not prepared correctly. Plus, the ingredients are in your pantry all the time! This is a great go-to meal for breakfast.

Black Cat Cookies

2008-10-30T11:42:00.001-07:00

These are easy, fun, and perfect for having the kids help. My mom used to make us a version of these when I was little, and I loved them. Have fun!

1 cup butter (no substitutes), softened
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
3 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup baking cocoa
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
48 pieces candy corn
24 Skittles or other round candies

DIRECTIONS

In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Combine the flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Roll dough into 1-1/2-in. balls. Place 3 in. apart on lightly greased baking sheets.
Flatten with a glass dipped in sugar. Pinch top of cookie to form ears. For whiskers, press a fork twice into each cookie. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10-12 minutes or until cookies are set. Remove from the oven; immediately press on candy corn for eyes and red-hots for noses. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Kalua Pig - Mainland Style

2008-10-24T21:20:00.000-07:00

My mom gave me a recipe for this, but I decided to add a few ingredients (cabbage, ginger, chicken broth) and I thought it tasted pretty close to the real thing. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!

Pork Butt/Shoulder
2 TBSP ginger (grated)
1/4 Cup Liquid Smoke
Rock Salt/Sea Salt Crystals
1 Cup Chicken Broth
Chopped Cabbage (optional)

Brown the outside of the meat using your favorite seasoning salt (optional). Mix liquid smoke and ginger together and rub into the meat. Then rub meat with salt. Place meat in crock pot and pour in remaining liquid smoke mixture and chicken broth. Cook on low setting for 8-10 hours. Add salt as necessary. When ready to serve, separate from the bone and pull apart, removing any visible fat. Mix in cabbage and serve over rice. Ono-licious!

Hint: The real flavor comes from the liquid smoke and the rock/sea salt so be generous with both.

Peas and Carrots Alphabet Soup

2008-10-23T15:32:00.000-07:00

I made this last night and Madison thanked Heavenly Father in her prayers for "the delicious soup that she loves so much." I thought it was good too and super easy.

6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

2 carrots, diced

1 cup alphabet pasta (Can be found at Trader Joe's)

Kosher salt

1 10-ounce package frozen peas (2 cups)

Place the broth in a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Add the carrots, pasta, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Simmer until the carrots and pasta are tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in the peas and cook until heated through, 1 to 2 minutes. Bon Apetit!

Snickerdoodles

2008-09-26T21:50:00.000-07:00

These are a favorite at our house. Soft, chewy, and rolled in sugar. What could be better?

Snickerdoodles
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 eggs
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons white sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Combine 1 1/2 cups white sugar, butter, vanilla and eggs. Mix well.
Stir in flour, cream of tartar, baking soda and salt. Blend well. Shape dough into 1 inch balls. Combine 3 tablespoons sugar and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon. Roll dough in sugar/cinnamon mixture and place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until set. Immediately remove from cookie sheets.

Smokey Pesto Red Pepper Chicken Pockets

2008-09-22T12:38:00.001-07:00

Super Good! Super Easy!

Chicken Breast, cooked and cut in pieces
Smoky Provolone Cheese slices
1/2 cup pesto (I used the Pesto from Costco)
1/4 cup mayo (I didn't use any mayo)
Green Onions
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 Jar of Roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
Pita pockets halved
Sliced Olives (To taste- I didn't use any)

Preheat oven to 350. In a bowl combine chicken, green onions, roasted red peppers, olives; mix. In a separate bowl combine pesto, mayo and lemon juice and mix. Add pesto mixture to the chicken mixture. Spoon into pita halves. Place sandwiches on cookie sheet and bake 7-10 minutes.

Baked German Apple Pancake

2008-09-21T18:53:00.000-07:00

Baked German Apple Pancake presented by Red Forest Bed & Breakfast

Brian and I had a bunch of apples from apple picking yesterday so I decided to try this recipe I found on the Internet. We really enjoyed it and didn't think it needed any kind of topping. Since the egg whites are beaten, the end result seems very light...which can cause you to eat more! It's supposed to serve 4, but Brian and I basically ate the whole thing by ourselves.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup flour

1/4 cup milk

Dash of salt

3 eggs, separated

2 tablespoons margarine

1/2 cup sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

3 large or 4 small apples, peeled, cored and sliced 1/4 inch thick

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°.

2. Place 9" ovenproof glass pie dish with deep sides in preheated oven. (I used an 11x7 retangular Pyrex.)
3. Beat egg whites until stiff.

4. In a separate bowl, mix flour, milk, salt and egg yolks with a hand mixer.

5. Gently fold egg white mixture in.

6. Sauté apples, sugar, margarine and cinnamon in skillet for 2-3 minutes until apples are well coated.

7. Pour apples into heated glass pie dish sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.

8. Pour the batter over apples slices.

9. Bake for 20 minutes at 350° until the pancake is brown and puffy.
1o. Remove from oven and loosen sides.

11. Invert on plate, if desired. Cut and serve with maple syrup, if desired.

Summer Pasta Bolognese

2008-08-13T17:58:00.000-07:00

From REAL SIMPLE Magazine, served here with Pioneer Woman's Fresh Green Beans and garlic toast.

12 oz. fettucine (3/4 package)

2 T. olive oil

1 lb. ground turkey

salt and pepper

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1 1/2 lb beefsteak tomatoes (about 3), chopped

3/4 c. dry white wine I used chicken broth instead

1 small zucchini, grated

3/4 c. fresh basil leaves, torn

1. Cook the pasta according to directions.

2. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey and season with 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Cook, breaking up the turkey with a spoon, for 3 minutes.

3. Add the garlic a nd cook for 1 minute. Add the tomatoes and wine/broth and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened, 4 to 5 minutes.

4. Remove from heat and fold in the zucchini and basil. Serve over pasta.

Makes 4 servings.

This was SO delicious and flavorful. The ground turkey was super tasty, too.

Zucchini Cakes

2008-07-31T15:23:00.000-07:00

I am not a big fan of zucchini, but I tell you what, these are delicious! I found the recipe on http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/ a couple of weeks ago. And today lo and behold a dear friend dropped off the biggest zucchini ever, so what else could I do but make this delectable little cakes.

1 large zucchini

1/2 c. seasoned bread crumbs

1 heaping Tbsp. minced garlic

1/2-3/4 c. Italian cheese blend

1-2 eggs

a pinch of kosher salt

olive oil

black pepper

Chop the ends off the zucchini and then use a cheese grater to shred it. Place the shredded zucchini in a clean towel and squeeze out the liquid. I was very surprised how much came out. Next place the semi-dry zucchini in a large bowl. Add the garlic, bread crumbs, cheese, 1 egg and salt and pepper then stir with a fork. If mixture is to dry, add another egg. If it is too dry, the mixture will fall apart when you try to cook it. In a frying pan, heat olive oil on medium heat. Use enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about 1/4". When the oil is hot, drop the zucchini batter by large spoonfuls into the pan and then flatten with the back of the spoon. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. The PW recommends serving these with Ranch dressing for dipping sauce, of which I had none last night, so we ate without and they were still fabulous on their own.

Broccoli Chicken Casserole

2008-07-18T09:07:00.000-07:00

4 (or 2-3 large) boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1 lb broccoli florets, cooked
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup dry stuffing mix

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Boil chicken until tender and shred or cut into bite size pieces. Meanwhile, steam broccoli until crisp but tender.

3. In a small bowl, mix together the soup and mayonnaise. Set aside. In a 9X13 inch baking dish, layer the chicken, broccoli, soup mixture, and cheese. Sprinkle dry stuffing mix over the top and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.

Serves 4 and very yummy.

Sweet and Sour Pork

2008-07-14T18:23:00.000-07:00

4-6 thick pork chops

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup chili sauce (found in Asian food section)

1/4 cup honey

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix honey, soy, and chili sauces. Place pork chops in greased 3 quart casserole dish. Pour sauces over pork chops. Bake for 1 hour. Easy and yummy!

Calabasa Con Pollo y Tortillas

2008-07-11T18:01:00.000-07:00

I am half Mexican and grew up with this staple that is not only tasty, but very healthy and delicious. It's name translates into squash with chicken, sounds a lot less intimidating in English:). It is an easy dinner to make. I usually make the tortilla dough, let it sit while I get the calabasa together and begin it and then go back to the tortillas to start rolling them out.

A make-ahead tip: you can make the tortilla dough and roll out the tortillas, placing one at a time in between pieces of waxed paper and then in the fridge. When you want to cook them, take them out and pop them on a warmed up grill. They taste so much better than store ones and are better when first cooked.

I haven't taken a picture of it, but will post one as soon as I have one.

Calabasa con Pollo

5 to 6 boneless chicken breasts (can substitute 10-12 chicken tenders) frozen
1 large onion, chopped
1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed (you can always buy it already cubed at the store)
1 - 15 oz can of diced tomatoes or diced tomatoes with chile
2 cups of frozen or fresh corn
1/2 tsp garlic
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Place all ingredients in large soup pot. Cover and simmer over low to medium heat for 45 minutes or until chicken is done, stirring occasionally. Serve with hot flour tortillas.

Flour Tortillas

4 cups of flour
1 1/2 tsp to 2 tsp salt
1/2 cup shortening
About 1 1/3 cups of warm water

After mixing salt and flour, cut in shortening until mixture is crumbly (with pastry cutter or fork). Add warm water. Knead well.

Place in bowl, cover and let rest in a warm place for at least 1 hour. Knead again until dough is smooth and glossy. Pinch a small amount of dough and roll until very thin. Keep flipping tortilla as it is rolled to get a round shape.

Cook on top of stove on an ungreased griddle set to medium heat.

Turn tortillas on both sides until lightly brown.

Keep warm in tortilla warmer or fold two pieces of foil together on three sides, put paper towel in foil and place tortillas inside to keep warm.

Using Leftovers

2008-07-11T17:44:00.000-07:00

I HATE wasting food and when we were preparing for a trip a few weeks back, I realized we had 1-2 pieces of three different types of chicken leftover from dinners in the past week. We also had several items that would not wait until we made it home. I didn't feel much like cooking or anything heavy that night, so this fit the bill. It's nothing too exciting, but I guess i hadn't spent much time thinking about making salads as entrees.

a few leftover chicken tenders or slices of ham or salami
(we used marinated ones)
green leaf lettuce
green pepper
sugar snap peas
tomato
anything else you need to use in your fridge that works

My husband and I used different chicken leftovers to top our salads. Prep salad. Cut chicken tenders in slices and heat up in microwave for 25 seconds. Top salad with chicken and drizzle with dressing. It was filling and a great way to get our veggies. It's so simple, it's easy to overlook using leftovers in this way.

Mom's Sweet Spaghetti

2008-06-20T12:52:00.000-07:00

This is still my favorite spaghetti sauce to date:

1/4 cup spaghetti seasoning
1-1 1/2 lbs. ground beef
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 quart canned tomatoes (or "stewed" tomatoes from the grocery store)
1 can tomato soup
salt and pepper to taste

Brown the beef with salt and pepper. In a blender, mix together tomatoes, soup, seasoning, and brown sugar. Add to beef mixture and simmer for 10 minutes. Serve with pasta. Easy!

Cocoa Surprise Cookies

2008-06-16T11:15:00.000-07:00

My little sister randomly sends me recipes that she clips from magazines. She doesn't cook, but she loves for me to cook and try new things so I can tell her about them. Yes, she's a bit odd.
She sent me this recipe a while ago and I finally got a chance to try it.
They were a huge hit with my kids and with my class that I teach at church.

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups all purpose flour
2/3 cup baking cocoa
1/2 tsp baking soda
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (I used a mixture of dark chocolate and semi-sweet chips)
2 cups miniature marshmallows, frozen

In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Combine flour, cocoa and baking soad; gradually add to creamed mixture. Stir in the chocolate chips. Roll into 1-1/2 inch balls. Press 2 to 3 frozen marshmallows into each; reshape balls.
Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 400 degrees F for 8 -10 minutes or until set. Cool 5 minutes before removing to wire racks to cool.

Crock Pot Recipes!

2008-06-02T11:44:00.000-07:00

I ran across a post on meckmom.com requesting crockpot recipes - see the comments on that post for lots of recipe ideas

Here's one of the links I found there: http://www.crockpothappiness.blogspot.com/

Cream Cheese Frosting for Red Velvet Cakes

2008-05-29T09:14:00.000-07:00

Beat together 6 ounces of cream cheese, softened (I use the low fat kind) with 1/2 cup of butter and 2 teaspoons vanilla till light and fluffy. Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar, beating well. Gradually beat in 2 1/2 -2 3/4 cups additional powdered sugar to reach spreading consistency. This frosts one sheet of red velvet cake. Cover and store cake in refrigerator.

Cinnamon French Toast

2008-05-17T11:07:00.000-07:00

Every time we try to make French Toast we always put cinnamon in the egg mixture and that never really works out very well. I came across this cinnamon bread and it's really good as French Toast and gets rid of the putting the cinnamon in the egg issue. I'm not really sure it can be found everywhere, but I found it at our Wal-Mart and our Costco (although we didn't have it at our last Wal-Mart). Anyway, it's really easy and good!

Ingredients:

-Cinnabon cinnamon bread

-Eggs

-Milk

Directions:

Make like you normally make French Toast! Voila!

Creamy Artichoke Dip

2008-04-28T15:48:00.000-07:00

8 oz. cream cheese
8 oz. sour cream
1 can diced green chiles (do not drain)
1 small jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained
6 oz. DiGiorno shredded parmesan cheese

Combine all ingredients together in a microwave-safe dish. Heat one minute in microwave, stir and continue to heat in 30 second increments until parmesan cheese is melted and dip is heated through. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with diced tomatoes and olives (if desired) and serve with shepherd's bread or tortilla chips. Quick and delicious!

Chocolate Trifle

2008-04-20T23:54:00.000-07:00

1 box Duncan Hines devils food cake mix
2 small boxes instant chocolate pudding
3 cups milk
2 (8 oz.) Cool Whip
4 Heath or Skor candy bars (freeze and crush)

Bake cake according to box directions in 9X13 inch pan. Cool. Mix pudding and milk and stir until thickened. Slice cake in half, making 2 think 9X13 inch layers. Layer in 9X13 inch pan 1/2 cake, 1/2 pudding, 1/2 Cool Whipe, then 1/2 crushed candy bars. Repeat and chill. If serving in a trifle dish, divide layers by one-fourth.

This is Aunt Mary Landreth's recipe. Mmmmm, so good!

Banana Banana Bread

2008-04-19T10:57:00.000-07:00

I especially prefer this banana bread because it has no nuts or other nonsense involved.
--
Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter (I melted it to make it easier to mix)
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 eggs, beaten
2 1/3 cups mashed overripe bananas

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar. Stir in eggs and mashed bananas until well blended. Pour in banana mixture; stir just to moisten. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.

Bake in preheated oven for 60 to 65 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of the loaf comes out clean. Let bread cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire rack.

Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Cook Time: 1 Hour 5 Minutes
Yields: 12 Servings

Mexican Casserole

2008-04-08T08:30:00.001-07:00

This casserole is very hearty and delicious. I didn't know what to expect while making it, but I was very pleasantly surprised at how scrumptious it turned out. The best part is that it's easy and satisfies that mexican food craving. I'm a big fan of mexican food so this hit the spot perfectly.

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
1 Green Bell Pepper, chopped
8 ounces egg noodles
1 (15 ounce) can chili
1 (14.5 ounce) can peeled and diced tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
1/4 cup salsa
1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning mix
1 -2 cups shredded mexican blend or cheddar cheese.
Directions:
Preheat oven to 250 degrees F (120 degrees C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the ground beef, onion, pepper, and celery and saute for 10 minutes, or until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain the fat and set aside. In a separate saucepan, cook noodles according to package directions. When cooked, drain the water and stir in the meat mixture, chili, tomatoes, corn, taco sauce and taco seasoning mix. Mix well and place entire mixture into a 10x15 baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.
Bake at 250 degrees for 20 minutes, or until thoroughly heated

Classic Cheesecake

2008-04-04T08:10:00.000-07:00

Okay, everyone has to try this cheesecake! It is so yummy, I must say. I made it for the first time this week and sent some home to my in-laws. My father-in-law called me that night to let me know that was the best cheesecake he has ever had. My husband inhaled the other 3/4's of it that same night. :) It's pretty simple too.

Ingredients:

3 - 8 oz pkg of cream cheese (softened)

1 cup sugar

3 eggs

2 1/2 tsp. vanilla

1 pt sour cream

3 tbl sugar

1 tsp vanilla

Directions:

Beat together in a large bowl cream cheese (make sure it's extra soft or it will be lumpy), sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Pour gently over baked graham cracker crust in a 9" spring form pan. Bake at 350 degrees for at least 30 minutes (may require 45 min). Take from oven and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Mix together sour cream, 3 Tbl sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla. Pour over cooked cheesecake and cook for another 5-10 minutes. Refrigerate for 24 hours. Top with pie filling of your choice.

Instead of pie filling, I used a bag of mixed frozen berries. I thawed them in a sauce pan with 3 tbl sugar and a little cornstarch and water. Once the mixture became bubbly, I poured it into a container and refrigerated it for half an hour. For every slice of cheesecake, I would pour some of the berry sauce over it. It was out of this world!

Graham Cracker Crust

1 1/4 cups crushed graham crackers

2 tbl sugar

4 tbl soft butter

- Mix well and spread evenly over bottom of pan. Bake for 10 minutes at 350 degrees. Let cool.

Seasoned Oven Fries

2008-04-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

I made these last night and this is just one pre-cooked potato. They say the amount of ingredients should yield 6 potatoes but I must have had a big one. Very very yummy.
-
Ingredients:

6 medium baking potatoes
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon seasoned salt (I used Mrs. Dash and it worked great)

Directions:

Cut each potato lengthwise into thirds; cut each portion into thirds. In a large reasealable plastic plastic bag, combine the butter, oil and seasoned salt. Add potatoes; shake to coat. Place in a single layer on a greased baking sheet. Bake, uncovered, at 450 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until tender, turning once.

Prep Time: 5 Minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes

Smoked Chicken, Broccoli, and Black Bean Soup

2008-03-26T15:14:00.000-07:00

I know we are coming out of soup season, but this is a great one to add to your repetoire. It is really delicious. It comes from a chef here at a local restaurant in La Jolla Cove, George's. It is very popular and after tasting the soup you may be able to see why it is a hot spot. Enjoy!

½ cup unsalted butter
½ cup diced carrots
½ cup diced onions
½ cup diced celery
1 cup broccoli stems, diced
2 teaspoons dried thyme
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried sweet basil
¼ cup dry white wine
4 cups chicken stock, hot
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon Tabasco
1 cup diced smoked chicken (recipe follows)
1 cup cooked black beans
1 cup broccoli florets
2 cups heavy cream
Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with a small amount of warm water (optional)

In saucepan, add ¼ cup butter. Saute carrots, onion, celery, and broccoli stems for 5 minutes. Add thyme, oregano and basil; sauté 5 minutes more. Add wine and deglaze pan. Add hot chicken stock and reduce heat by 1/3. Add Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, smoked chicken, beans and broccoli florets. Simmer 5 minutes. Add cream, simmer 5 minutes more and season to taste (thicken with cornstarch if desired). Drop in remaining butter, piece by piece, stirring until melted and serve immediately.

Smoked Chicken:
On a covered grill, slightly smoke boneless chicken, cooking to medium rare (about 30 minutes). The chef at George’s uses applewood chips and does not allow the grill to become too hot.

Homemade PlayDough

2008-03-23T15:27:00.000-07:00

This is similar to the recipe Hill used when we were in Utah. Gracie loved it and if some does find its way into her mouth, it won't make her sick. I highly reccommend it! Hours of play dough fun!

Ingredients:
1 c. flour
1/2 c. salt
1 c. water
1 tbsp. oil
2 tsp. cream of tartar
Food coloring by drops

Directions:
1. Combine all ingredients in a pan and stir. Cook over low heat, stirring until a ball forms.
2. Add food coloring and mix thoroughly until desired color.
3. Cool on foil. Store in covered container

Mac & Peas

2008-03-17T21:46:00.000-07:00

I was pleasantly surprised by this recipe. It was very easy to make and also very yummy to eat. It is an Italian family recipe from my friend Brooke. It is one of her favorites. Enjoy!

½ package frozen peas (16 oz. bag)
½ yellow onion peeled and sliced thinly in quarters
2 or 3 tablespoons olive oil
1 small can tomato paste (6 oz.)
2 large bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

Pasta- small shells, ditali, or broken spaghetti

In a small pan sauté the sliced onion in olive oil until the onion is clear. Add the frozen peas and cook together with onion until peas are no longer forze. Empty the can of paste into pan with onion and peas, add 2 paste cans full of water also, and two bay leaves. Mix together well and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add more water if sauce becomes too thick. Salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 30 minutes.

Serve over “macaroni.” Serves four.

Upgrade: add grilled chicken breast, cut into several small pieces and mix in.

Chicken Spaghetti from The Pioneer Woman

2008-03-17T16:19:00.001-07:00

This recipe comes directly from The Pioneer Woman Cooks! website. I fully credit her innovation and cooking skills, but I made this over the weekend and it was TO DIE FOR, and really very simple. Step by step instructions (with step by step pictures) can be found at the link above.

1 cut-up fryer OR 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1-1lb. box of thin spaghetti
2 cans cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup (I prefer chicken)
1 onion
1 green bell pepper
1 (4oz.) jar diced pimentos, drained
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tsp. Lawry's season salt
salt
ground black pepper
1/8-1/4 tsp. red cayenne pepper

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

1. Place chicken in large pot and cover with water, bring to boil and allow to boil for a few minutes, then simmer on med-low heat for 30-45 minutes. Remove chicken and reserve 2 cups of the chicken broth from the pot; set aside.
2. Add spaghetti to remaining broth in the pot and cook until al dente (do not overcook or the spaghetti will become mushy in the casserole). While spaghetti cooks, shred chicken breasts or pick the meat from the bones of the cut up fryer. You should have approx. 2 cups of chicken meat. Dice the onion and bell pepper very finely.
3. When the spaghetti is finished, drain in and place it in a mixing bowl. Add the chicken and cream of mushroom/chicken soup. Mix together then add the onion, bell pepper, diced pimentos and 2 cups of the shredded cheese.
4. Now add the Lawry's seasoned salt, black pepper and cayenne pepper (1/8 tsp is about right, especially if you're feeding this to kids). Taste the mixture and add salt if necessary. Now, add the reserved chicken broth one cup at a time until the mixture becomes stirrable, but NOT soupy (usually just under 2 cups). Place the mixture in a casserole dish (at least 9x13 size) and sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 30-45 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.

This makes a very FULL 9x13 pan of casserole, but it was gone in no time at our house. The boys loved it, too. They even ate the included veggies (dicing them finely is the trick). Enjoy!

Best Ever Tomato Soup

2008-03-13T12:17:00.000-07:00

Best EVER tomato soup EVER! I wanted to make Ultimate Grilled Cheese sandwhiches with this but didn't have the time. Instead I just slapped some mayo and a slice of velveeta on some wheat bread and grilled it. It was FAB-U-LOUS dipped in this BEST EVER tomato soup.

3 Tbs. Olive Oil
2 Large Onions, diced small
5 cups diced and seeded tomatoes
2 cups chicken stock
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup basil pesto
salt & pepper to taste
Fresh Parmesan cheese

Cook onions in oil over med-low heat until translucent.
Add tomatoes and allow to warm to a simmer.
Add chicken stock.
Bring to a simmer and allow to cook 15 minutes.
Remove from heat and add whipping cream and pesto.
Blend to desired consistency in blender.
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Top with fresh parmesan cheese and serve.

Recipe courtesy of Abbi Penn.

Buttermilk Pancakes

2008-03-03T10:56:00.000-08:00

*From Jillyn Huffmire* These aren't thick, heavy, cake-like pancakes, they are light and delicious. Great for kids. The recipe is easier than I expected and not too hard to memorize b/c there's 1 of almost everything.

Whip the following with hand mixer in a large bowl:

-1 egg

-1 c. sour cream (can use Light)

-1 c. buttermilk (or 1 c. milk & 1 TB lemon juice)

Add the following and mix by hand:

-1 c. flour

-1 tsp. baking soda

-1 tsp. baking powder

-1 TB sugar

-1/2 tsp. salt

Drop batter 1/8 c. at a time onto greased griddle warmed to med-high heat. Cook until top bubbles, then flip and cook until done. Makes about 24 small pancakes.

BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad

2008-02-26T17:47:00.001-08:00

I used to have a similar salad at TGI Friday's every time I went there in college and then they stopped making it. Big mistake. I have no reason to go to TGI now. Luckily, it's easy to re-create, super good, and hard to mess up!

Salad Ingredients:
-Chicken (prepared any way you like; I just "browned" mine on the stove top)
-Lettuce (I just used a bag to make it super easy)
-Can of corn, drained (or you can use frozen, I'm sure)
-Can of black beans, drained and rinsed
-Tomato
-Shredded cheese (I used Colby Jack)
-Avocado
-Crushed up tortilla chips and/or onion straws (depending on preference)

Note: you'll notice there are no measurements because it's up to how many people you're serving and how much you want of each thing - I just guessed it all out. Like I said, it's hard to mess up.

Dressing Ingredients:
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1/2 cup Ranch dressing (I used Hidden Valley, I'm sure whatever is fine)

Directions:
1. Put chicken, lettuce, corn, beans, and tomato in a bowl and mix up, set aside.

2. In separate bowl, mix up BBQ sauce and Ranch (you may like more or less BBQ or Ranch, up to you).

3. Put lettuce mixture in bowls or on plates and top with shredded cheese, avocado, and tortilla chips (or onion straws).

4. Put dressing on and mix up and eat!

(See, it's so easy I had a hard time making directions...it's pretty self explanatory. Also, you don't have to have avocado, but it makes it so good - especially if you're lucky enough to have good avocados in your area! Californians!)

Pam's Chicken Enchiladas

2008-02-23T16:37:00.000-08:00

2 cans chicken breast
16 oz. sour cream
1 bunch green onions, chopped
1 can cream of chicken soup
2 c. shredded cheese
1 can diced green chiles
1 c. sliced black olives
1 can sliced mushrooms
1 pkg. flour tortillas

Combine all ingredients and place desired amount in center of tortilla, roll up tortilla burrito style and lay in greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Place remaining mixture over the tops of the tortillas. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Creamy Rigatoni with Broccoli and Brie

2008-02-21T10:45:00.000-08:00

This pasta combination is delicious and easy to make.

1 pound dried rigatoni
1 head broccoli, florets and saltks cut into ½-inch pieces and steamed
½ cup (2 ounces) pine nuts, toasted
8 ounces Brie (with rind), cut into 1-inch pieces
Kosher salt and pepper

Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and return the pasta to the pot. Add the steamed broccoli, pine nuts, Brie, ¾ tablespoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Stir until the cheese melts. Divide among individual bowls.

Tip: The Brie’s rind adds a rich, earthy flavor to the pasta, but you can omit it if you prefer. You can also try fontina or Taleggio instead of Brie.

Spaghetti Primavera

2008-02-19T18:01:00.000-08:00

I tried this out today from Kraft Foods but had to modify due to our lack of supplies and money. Robby said it was fantastic!

Ingredients:

2 cups cut-up fresh vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, carrots)

2 Tbsp oil

4 oz. spaghetti, cooked, drained (about 2 cups)

3/4 cup spaghetti sauce

1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese

Directions:

Cook and stir vegetables in hot oil in large skillet 5 minutes or until crisp-tender.

Add spaghetti and spaghetti sauce. Cook 2 minutes or until thoroughly heated, stillring occasionally. Add cheese; mix well.

Kraft Kitchen Tips

Subtitute 2 cups frozen mixed broccoli, cauliflower and carrots for cut-up fresh vegetables.

I used frozen peas because that was all I had on hand. It also only serves 3 so I guess it would just be for you and the hubs.

Enjoy!

Roasted New Potato Salad

2008-02-19T16:07:00.000-08:00

A fresh twist on an old favorite. This potato salad is flavorful and satisfying. It is a little labor intensive, but worth it. Here are the details:

1 1/2 pounds new potatoes (about 9 or 10) cut in half
5 Tablespoons EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
1 teaspoon salt
Fresh-ground black pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut in half lengthwise
1 garlic clove, minced
1 Tablespoon sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar
1 small red onion, sliced thin
1 cup chopped parsely
2 plum tomatoes

Preheat oven to 425. Put potatoes in roasting pan. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of the Olive oil. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper. Roast for 40 to 50 minutes, or until tender. Let them cool for 10 to 15 minutes.

While potatoes roast, bring 1 quart salted waterto a boil in a small saucepan. Add green beans and boil 1 to 2 minutes, no longer. Drain and rinse in cold water.

In a large bowl, combine the garlic, vinegar and 3 Tablespoons Olive oil. Add onion, parsley, tomatoes, and green beans.

Add potatoes to the bowl and then add remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper to taste. Toss well.

Bon Apetit!

Fruit Salsa & Cinnamon Chips

2008-02-19T12:05:00.001-08:00

Fruit Salsa

2 kiwi fruit, peeled and diced
2 golden delicious apples, peeled and diced
8 oz. raspberries
1 lb. strawberries
2 Tbsp. sugar
1 Tbsp. Brown sugar
3 Tbsp. preserves (any flavor)

Mix raspberries and strawberries with the sugar and preserves.
Add apple and kiwi. Cover and chill for at least 15 minutes.

Cinnamon Chips

10 flour tortillas (small ones)
Melted butter-between ½ and ¾ a stick
1 cup cinnamon and sugar mixture

Brush tortillas with butter and sprinkle with cinnamon/sugar mixture.
Use pizza cutter to cut into wedges.
Place on cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 10 minutes. Let cool.

How unique is this? I love this. It's different, delicious, and classy. It could almost be used as an April Fools meal. Enjoy.

Szechwan Shrimp

2008-02-16T10:27:00.000-08:00

4 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/4 cup sliced green onions
4 cloves garlic, minced
12 ounces cooked shrimp, tails removed

DIRECTIONS
In a bowl, stir together water, ketchup, soy sauce, cornstarch, honey, crushed red pepper, and ground ginger. Set aside.Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir in green onions and garlic; cook 30 seconds. Stir in shrimp, and toss to coat with oil. Stir in sauce. Cook and stir until sauce is bubbly and thickened.
Serve over hot cooked rice.
This is a surprisingly easy and quick recipe. Ready in 30 minutes or less. I would suggest doubling the liquid ingredients for extra sauce. If you do not like spicy food or are serving to children, I would suggest decreasing the crushed red pepper or taking it out all together. I personally love the extra zing it gives the dish. You can also add carrots or stir fry vegetables to the sauce for a little change.

Brushetta Chicken Bake

2008-02-10T06:56:00.000-08:00

I found this recipe on the back of a box of Stove Top and it's awesome. I've already made it 3 times. Once for myself, once with Angie and Hill in San Diego, and then I made it to take over to a sister in our ward who had a baby. Seriously, it's so great because it's super easy, pretty healthy, and it tastes really good. I highly recommend it as an option when you have to take meals to people since it's more of a healthy casserole. It worked out great for me!

Ingredients:

1 can (14-1/2 oz.) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 pkg (6 oz.) chicken Stove Top

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup hot water

1-1/2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 tsp. dired basil leaves

1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. Put first four ingredients in a bowl and mix until moistened.

3. Place chicken in 9x13 baking dish and sprinkle with basil and cheese.

4. Top with stuffing mixture.

5. Bake 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Seriously...SO easy and really good. Enjoy!

Chocolate Sour Cream Waffles

2008-02-10T06:41:00.000-08:00

Technically these are "dessert" waffles but I make them for breakfast and just eat them as is without syrup or anything. My husband uses syrup, but I think that might make them too sweet. Either way, they're really yummy even though I'm not generally a chocolately breakfast person.

Ingredients:
3/4 cup all purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 T. unsweetened cocoa
2 tea. baking powder
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter (I've used margarine as well)
1 egg
1 tea vanilla

Directions:
1. Heat waffle iron to medium-high heat (or you can make pancakes).

2. In large bowl combine flour, sugar, cocoa and baking powder.

3. In medium bowl stir together sour cream, milk, butter, egg and vanilla until smooth. (It's definitely important to mix the flour mixture and liquids separately first.)

4. Stir liquids into flour mixture until well blended.

5. Cook on waffle iron or griddle.

Note: they turn out pretty flimsy looking and soft...not hard and crispy like your average waffle. I liked them that way though.

Can be also be served as a dessert with ice cream, frozen yogurt, strawberries, etc...

Yummy Stuffed Bell Peppers

2008-01-28T20:12:00.000-08:00

This looks hard, but it's really not. It's great for a change from the same old things. It smells heavenly and makes your whole house smell delicious. I am a cheese lover and like the cheese and basil on top the best so the next time I make it I will cut the peppers lengthwise and have stuffed bell pepper boats with cheese and basil covering all the tops.

3 T Chicken broth
6 large, well proportioned green or red bell peppers
1 lb Ground Turkey (or beef), browned in a pan.
1 medium to large onion, chopped
2 -3 thinly sliced garlic cloves
1 cup cooked rice
3 T brown sugar
1/4 c cider vinegar
1 T dried Thyme
1 tsp cinnamon
1 T dried oregano
Dash of Tabasco
Salt and pepper to taste
15 oz of homemade tomato sauce (from the can works too)
1/2 cup grated mozzerella cheese
1 c grated cheddar cheese1/4 c minced fresh basil
Slice stems and tops off peppers. Remove seeds and white membranes. Rinse and set aside to dry.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.Place onion an dgarlic in a non stick skillet with broth. Saute over low heat until tender.
Add browned ground turkey.
Mix in cooked rice, brown sugar, vinegar, all spices, and about 1/2 cup of tomato sauce.
Stuff peppers with the meat mixture.
Place upright in a 2 quart casserole dish that has been coated with cooking spray.
Place any remaining mixturearound the peppers in the dish. Pour any remaining mixture around the peppers in the dish.
Pour remaining tomato sauce over peppers.
Bake for 1 hour, then remove from the oven and sprinkle cheeses and fresh basil over the top. Bake 5 -10 minutes more or until cheese is melted.

Easy Pleasing Meatloaf

2008-01-28T16:37:00.000-08:00

2 lb. lean ground beef
1 pkg. (6 oz.) stuffing mix for chicken
1 cup water
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup barbecue sauce, divided

PREHEAT oven to 375 degrees. Mix all ingredients except 1/4 cup of the barbecue sauce.

SHAPE meat mixture into oval loaf in 13x9-inch baking dish; top with remaining 1/4 barbecue sauce.

BAKE 1 hour or until cooked through.

May substitute ground pork or veal for the ground beef and/or ketchup for the barbecue sauce.

Prep Time: 10 min
Total Time: 1 hr 25 min
Makes: 8 Servings
--
I've been looking for over a year for a good and super super easy meatloaf recipe and I feel like I've struck gold with this!

Minestrone Soup (tastes like Olive Garden's)

2008-01-25T14:04:00.000-08:00

*Flavorful, delicious, and not difficult. Also, it's a flexible recipe as you can see by the changes I made based on what I did or didn't have on hand when I made this *I got this recipe from my sister-in-law Jillyn

In pot, heat:

2 T Olive Oil

Add and saute:

1 Med. Onion (or equivalent Dried Onion, whatever you have)

2 cloves garlic, minced (or garlic powder, whatever you have)

2 carrots, sliced thinly

2 stalks celery (I didn't have these and it turned out great)

Add:

2 cans Diced Tomatoes - Italian Recipe (or just regular diced tomatoes w/ Italian Seasoning added)

2 cans chicken broth (14 1/2 oz.)

2 t. dried parsley (or 1 T. fresh)

2 t. diced basil

1 t. dried oregano

1 t. salt

pepper

Bring all to a boil. Reduce heat. Simmer 20 minutes.

Add:

2 cans kidney beans, drained (15 oz.)

2 c. shredded cabbage (optional - I didn't have this either)

Simmer 10 min.

Stir in:

1 med. sized zucchini sliced (again, I didn't add this)

1/2. c. uncooked elbow macaroni

Cook 10 min.

Serve topped with Parmesan Cheese OR shredded Pecorino Romano cheese (Kirtland brand at Costco in the deli/refrigerated section at the back - Jillyn recommended that I have this cheese on hand because it's delicious added to almost anything like soups, salads, pasta, hot veggies, toasted on bread, etc - it's really similar to fresh parmesan they grate onto your food at Italian Restaurants.)

Super Easy Pork Tacos

2008-01-24T18:46:00.000-08:00

This recipe is super easy (hence the name) and very delicious! Just put two ingredients into the crockpot in the morning and in the evening you will have very tasty tacos. I like to serve the tacos with tortillas (of course), cheese, sour cream, and advocados.

Buen Provecho!

1 jar of salsa (choose your favorite, any kind will do)
1 pork roast, or tenderloin (I usually use a tenderloin)
Put roast, or tenderloin in crockpot
Pour salsa over top.
Cook in crockpot on low for 6-8 hours, until meat can shred with fork.
Use shredded pork as meat for soft tacos.

Devil's Food Cake Mix Cookies

2008-01-24T16:17:00.000-08:00

1 box Devil's Food cake mix

2 eggs

1/2 c. vegetable oil

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Mix all ingredients together, roll into walnut-sized balls and place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool 2 minutes on cookie sheet, then move to wire rack. Makes 2-3 dozen cookies.

Variations: Add walnuts, pecans, coconut or chocolate chips.

These stay very moist and chewy for a couple of days (if they last that long!)

Grilled Turkey & Cheese Sandwich

2008-01-23T17:07:00.001-08:00

I stole this idea from Jenna but she used avacados and swiss cheese instead.

Prepare just like a regular grilled cheese sandwich and add turkey, ham, or whatever your fancy. I added turkey and Kraft singles (off-brand). It was so easy and you can add whatever you have on hand.

I give all the credit to Jenna as she's my secondary mentor for cooking, and my mom is my first.

AND this is the first recipe I've ever made just flying by the seat of my pants. I think I should get a pat on the back for that.

Hope you enjoy! It's so quick and easy, I don't know how you couldn't!

Heavenly Chocolate Mousse

2008-01-21T19:02:00.000-08:00

My absolute favorite thing about the Internet is being able to find a recipe for ANYTHING I am craving at ANY moment. It's awesome. I've been wanting creamy chocolate, so chocolate mousse was the perfect thing! This was really good and really easy and hit the spot! It looks kind of fancy, too, so that's fun. Apparently, you can use it in a pie, but I like it with lightly sweet whipped cream on top. Beware: it's really rich (but really good).

Ingredients:

8 (1 ounce) squares semisweet chocolate, coarsely chopped (or 1 1/3 cups chocolate chips)

1/2 cup water, divided

2 T. butter (no substitutes)

3 egg yolks

2 T. sugar

1 1/4 cups whipping cream, whipped (no sugar)

Directions:

1. In a microwave or double boiler, heat chocolate, 1/4 cup water and butter until the chocolate and butter are melted. (I did chocolate chips in the microwave according to the package directions and then added the water and butter after it was all melted.)

2. Cool for 10 minutes.

3. In a small, heavy saucepan, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and remaining water. Cook and stir over low heat until mixture reaches 160 degrees F, about 1-2 minutes. (I didn't test the temp.)

4. Remove egg yolks from heat and whisk in chocolate mixture.

5. Set saucepan in ice or cold water and stir until cooled, about 5-10 minutes.

6. Fold in whipped cream.

7. Spoon into dessert dishes.

8. Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.

Mom's Spaghetti & Meatballs

2008-01-18T12:15:00.000-08:00

This is super easy (few ingredients) and very tasty. You kind of have to wing it on the amount of spices and herbs, according to your own preference. I just made this two nights ago, should've taken a picture!

Sauce:
1 lg. can crushed tomatoes
2 cans tomato paste
2 cans water (from tomato paste cans)
oregano
salt & pepper
sugar (just a tad to offset the acidity of the tomatoes)

Combine all these ingredients in a large pot and cook over medium heat until mildly boiling, reduce to med-low heat, then add the meatballs. (Note: this sauce is also great for lasagna, manicotti or other Italian dishes. Add sausage, ground beef or chicken.)

Meatballs:
1.5 lbs ground beef
2 pieces of bread, soaked in milk
1 egg
parmesan cheese
parsley
garlic salt
salt & pepper

Mix these ingredients together, mushing the bread and egg into the ground beef with your hand. Roll into balls (the larger they are, the longer they cook) and drop them into the sauce mixture. Cook in sauce over med-low heat at least one hour. Serve all this over spaghetti and you've got yourself one tasty, home-cooked Italian meal!

*This also makes a great crockpot recipe.

Calling Meatball Recipes

2008-01-16T15:11:00.001-08:00

I want to learn to make them but I need easy recipes.

Jenna, I know you have one!

Thanks everyone!

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

2008-01-16T14:05:00.000-08:00

I have ham left over from this weekend and a huge bag of potatoes that I'd like to get rid of. Not to mention 3 blocks of cream cheese I was going to use for a cheesecake only to decide against it after the purchase had been made. So this recipe is perfect and has everything that I already have in my kitchen.

Prep Time: 30 Min

Total Time: 1 Hour

Makes: 15 Servings

1 pkg. (8 oz.) Cream Cheese, softened
1/2 cup Sour Cream
1 cup chicken broth
3 lb. red potatoes, thinly sliced (about 12 cups)
1 pkg. (6 oz.) Smoked Ham, chopped
1 pkg. (8 oz.) Shredded Cheddar Cheese, divided
1 cup frozen peas

PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Spray 13x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Mix cream cheese, sour cream and chicken broth in large bowl until well blended. Add potatoes, ham, 1-3/4 cups of the cheese and peas; stir gently to coat all ingredients.

SPOON into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese.

BAKE 1 hour or until heated through and potatoes are tender.

Italian Vegetable Soup

2008-01-10T12:04:00.001-08:00

This recipe is great one, especially if you have leftover cooked ham from another dinner. Most of the other ingredients you will probably have on hand. Bon Apetit!

3 small carrots, sliced
1 small onion, chopped
2 small potatoes, diced
2 T. chopped parsley
1 garlic clove, minced
3 t. beef bouillon granules, or 3 beef bouillon cubes
1 ¼ t. dried basil
½ t. salt
¼ t. pepper
16 oz. Can red kidney beans, undrained
3 cups water
14 ½ oz. Cant stewed tomatoes, with juice
1 c. diced, cooked ham

Layer carrots, onions, potatoes, parsley, garlic, beef bouillon, basil, salt, pepper, and kidney beans in crockpot.
Do not stir.
Add water.
Cover and Cook on Low 8-9 hours
Or on High 4 ½ to 5 ½ hours until veggies are tender.
Stir in tomatoes and ham.
Cover and cook on High 10-15 minutes.

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

2008-01-08T18:33:00.001-08:00

I got this recipe off the Food Network and modified it slightly. It was really good though - especially if you like cheese!

Prep time: 10 minutes (so it says...it took me longer!)

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients:

Kosher Salt

2 cups elbow macaroni

2 eggs, beaten

1 14 oz. can evaporated milk + 1/4 cup milk + 1/4 cup water (2 cups total)

1/2 cup margarine, melted

3 cups grated sharp cheddar

1 cup bread crumbs

1 teaspoon paprika

1/4 cup grated Parmesan (can use the fridge kind)

Directions:

1. Preaheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the macaroni and cook, stirring occasionally until almost tender, 10 to 12 minutes. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.

3. In a larger bowl, beat the eggs with the milk and 1/4 cup melted margarine.

4. Put half the macaroni into a greased 2-quart casserole dish and top with half the cheddar cheese. Repeat.

5. Pour the milk mixture over the macaroni and cheese.

6. In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs with the paprika, the remaining butter, and the Parmesan. Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the macaroni.

7. Bake until brown and bubbly, 40 to 45 minutes. Serve warm.

Creamy White Chili

2008-01-07T17:30:00.001-08:00

1 lb. cooked, skinless, boneless chicken (cubed)
1 ½ tsp. garlic powder
1 medium onion chopped
1 Tbs. vegetable oil
2 cans great northern beans
1 can (14 oz) chicken broth
2 cans (4 oz) chopped green chilies
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp cumin *
1 tsp oregano
½ tsp. pepper
¼ tsp. cayenne pepper *
1 cup sour cream
½ c whipping cream

Sautee the chicken, garlic & onion in oil. Add beans (rinsed & drained), broth, chilies & seasonings. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, simmer for 30 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in sour cream & whipping cream. Serve immediately.

*If doubling this I suggest not doubling the cumin & cayenne pepper. Otherwise it is really hot!

Having a lid on soup while it is simmering depends on you. I kept the lid on because I wanted to keep all the juice/moisture in instead of having it thicken up so much. Also you can grill the chicken on a George Forman grill and then add to the sauteed garlic and onion if you want. I’ve tried both ways and both are yummy.

Angel Chicken Pasta

2008-01-07T17:28:00.000-08:00

Way good and way easy!!!

3-4 big chicken breasts
¼ cup butter
1 dry Italian salad dressing mix
½ cup white cooking wine
1 can condensed golden mushroom soup
4 ounces cream cheese with chives
½-1 lb angel hair pasta

Preheat oven at 325
In pot melt butter and then stir in Italian dressing
Add wine & soup
Add cream cheese until melts
Heat through- but do not boil

In a 9x13 pan cut chicken breasts into smaller pieces
Space them out and pour sauce over.
Cook about 60 minutes

Pour over pasta and/or rice.

Fiesta Casserole

2008-01-07T17:26:00.001-08:00

Fiesta Casserole

1 lb extra lean ground beef
1 green pepper- chopped
1 onion- chopped
1 red pepper- chopped (optional)
1 jar (16oz) Thick ‘n Chunky Salsa
10 oz. corn
Flour tortillas
Cheese

Preheat oven 375
Brown meat with peppers & onions in large skillet.
Drain and add salsa & corn. Bring to boil
Spoon 1 cup meat mixture onto bottom of 13x9 inch baking dish.
Top with tortiallas, overlapping if necessary.
Spoon ½ of remaining mixture over tortillas, and top with cheese.
Top with more tortillas and meat mixture, cover with foil.

Bake 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Remove from oven and uncover.
Sprinkle with cheese and let sit until cheese is melted.

Quick and Easy Alfredo Sauce

2008-01-07T12:49:00.000-08:00

Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 cups milk
6 ounces grated Parmesan cheese
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions:
Melt butter in a medium, non-stick saucepan over medium heat. Add cream cheese and garlic powder, stirring with wire whisk until smooth. Add milk, a little at a time, whisking to smooth out lumps. Stir in Parmesan and pepper. Remove from heat when sauce reaches desired consistency. Sauce will thicken rapidly, thin with milk if cooked too long. Toss with hot pasta to serve.

I never knew Alfredo sauce was this easy to make!

Chicken Noodle Soup

2008-01-07T09:37:00.001-08:00

4 c. chopped, cooked chicken
1 c. chopped celery
1/4 c. chopped carrots
1/4 c. chopped onions
1/4 c. butter
8 oz. egg noodles
2 boxes (32oz) Swanson chicken broth
3-4 c. water
1/2 t. dried marjoram
1/2 t. ground black pepper
1 bay leaf
1 T. dried parsley (I prefer fresh)

1. In a large stock pot, saute celery and onion in butter.
2. Add chicken, carrots, broth, water, marjoram, pepper, bay leaf and parsley. Simmer 30 minutes.
3. Add noodles and simmer 10 more minutes.

Cinnamon Roasted Almonds

2007-12-18T08:18:00.000-08:00

After trying a few different recipes, I decided this is the best one!

1/4 cup milk

2 Tbsp. water

1 cup sugar
1/4 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. cinnamon (I bet you could add more though if you wanted)
3 cups nuts

Combine all ingredients except nuts in a saucepan. Over medium heat, dissolve sugar. Add nuts. Cook, stirring frequently, until nuts are completely sugared and no syrup is left in pan. Spread on wax paper and let cool. Enjoy!

Super Easy Tomato Basil Soup

2007-12-17T19:02:00.000-08:00

Ingredients:
1 can tomato soup
1/2 can whipping cream
1/2 can milk
Basil

To make this super easy (and super good) tomato basil soup all you do is take a can of tomato soup (and brand will do) and pour it in a pan. Then fill half the can with whipping cream and then fill the rest with regular milk (I use skim). Then mix it up and shake in some basil (you can try fresh, but I haven't tried it yet). Let it boil up a bit and stir until you're satisfied or your "grilled" cheese sandwich is done. Enjoy! (I have, in past attempts, added garlic and dried onions, but I like it without either. It's up to you!) You'll never want to eat tomato soup the old way again!

Peanut Butter Balls

2007-12-13T11:51:00.000-08:00

These were given to me by a friend and I thought they were mouth-watering.

1 1/2 c. creamy peanut butter
3/4 c. salted butter softened
1 1/2 T. Vanilla Extract
1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (2 lb.) bag of powdered sugar
24 oz. chocolate candy coating, melted

In a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer combined peanut butter, butter and vanilla.
Gradually beat in condensed milk and powdered sugar.
Beat until throughly mixed.
Shape into 1 inch balls and place on a waxed paper lined baking sheet.
Refrigerate for 2 hours.
With a fork dip each ball into melted chocolate than refrigerate until firm.

Chicken Enchilada Soup

2007-12-13T11:22:00.000-08:00

This was fast and fabulous!
1 T. vegetable oil
1 lb. boneless chicken breasts (appox. 3 breasts), cooked & cubed
½ c. diced onion
1 garlic clove, pressed
4 c. chicken broth
1 c. masa harina
3 c. water
1 c. enchilada sauce
16 oz. velveeta cheese
1 t. salt
1 t. chili powder
½ t. cumin

In a large pot, place oil and diced onion; sauté until onions are soft and clear, about 5 minutes.
Add chicken broth, garlic, salt, chili powder, and cumin; Bring to a boil.
Combine masa harina with 3 cups water in a separate bowl; Stir until all lumps are dissolved.

Add to hot cooked mixture and return to a boil. Once mixture starts to bubble, continue cooking 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly. This will eliminate any raw taste from the masa harina.
Add enchilada sauce. After mixture return to a boil, stir occasionally and add cheese that has been cut into chunks.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until cheese melts.
Add chicken and heat through.
Makes approximately 6 servings.

Mom's Caramel Popcorn

2007-12-11T16:29:00.000-08:00

I requested that my mom (Pam Holmes) write this recipe up. Here it is:

1 Cube Butter
1/4 c water
1/2 c light karo
1/2 c brown sugar
1 c sugar
1/8 t cream of tarter

Cook to softball stage. (I always just have a cup of ice water by the pan and as soon as it all starts to boil, drop a bit into the water until it forms a soft ball, and then take it off the heat.) Stir in 1/4 t baking soda and then 1/2 t vanilla. Pour over large bowl of popcorn and stir.

Homemade Flour Tortillas

2007-12-06T14:30:00.000-08:00

3 c. unbleached flour
2 t. baking powder
1 t. salt
4-6 T. vegetable shortening
About 1-1/4 c. warm water

Mix dry ingredients together. Add vegetable shortening and cut into flour mixture with a pastry cutter or two knives. Add warm water a little at a time until the dough is soft but not sticky. Pull off dough pieces to form 10-12 small dough balls and let them sit 10 minutes or longer. Heat a frying pan or skillet to medium to high heat. Dust each ball with a little flour and roll each out into a thin tortilla shape. Cook only a few seconds on each side in the skillet (until nice brown spots appear around the tortilla). Keep warm in a towel until ready to serve.

Spicy Shredded Beef

2007-11-27T16:34:00.000-08:00

This is a great recipe for sandwiches, tacos, burritos, etc. We like it best on sandwiches. It's spicy and delicious!

1 chuck tender roast (or any other beef roast)

1 pkg. Good Seasons Italian dressing mix

1 jar sliced pepperoncini

1 c. water

Brown the roast on all sides in a pan, then move the roast to a roasting pan or baking dish. Pour the packet of Italian dressing mix over the top of the roast, then cover with half the jar of the pepperoncini and juices. Add water and cover roast with foil. Bake at 200 degrees for eight hours. This can be done all day or overnight. A crockpot works well, too. Shred the cooked roast with two forks and mix around in the juices and peppers. Serve on toasted rolls or in tacos.

Candy Cane Cookies

2007-11-26T14:40:00.000-08:00

INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup sifted confectioners' sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon red food coloring

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C).

Mix well the shortening and butter, sugar, egg, almond and vanilla. In a separate bowl, mix flour and salt and add to shortening mixture. Divide dough in half.

Blend red food coloring into one half. Roll 1 teaspoon of the red dough and 1 teaspoon of the white dough on lightly floured board into 4 inch strips. Place strips side by side and press lightly together and twist like a rope. Curve top of rope down to look like the handle of a candy cane.

Bake 9 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove while still warm. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup crushed peppermint stick candy and 1/2 cup sugar (optional).

*These may not be super easy but would be great if you are having a holiday party.

Candied Yams

2007-11-18T08:20:00.001-08:00

Here is the recipe I'm using for Robby's family of at least 40 for Thanksgiving.

~
INGREDIENTS
1 (29 ounce) can sweet potatoes
1/4 cup butter, cut into pieces
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Place sweet potatoes in a medium baking dish. Distribute butter pieces evenly over the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle with brown sugar. Layer with miniature marshmallows.

Cover and bake in the preheated oven 25 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender and marshmallows have melted.

PREP TIME 15 Min
COOK TIME 25 Min
READY IN 40 Min
~
I'm also in charge of two different types of Jello and a pie. Easy Jello recipes would be appreciated. Thanks!

Jiffy Muffin Mix

2007-11-11T09:55:00.000-08:00

"Quality and Value since 1930"

And it looks like that is how old this box is but it's actually good! It only costs about 50 cents per box and they give other recipes on the side.

They have a good variety including Raspberry and Blueberry and make easy and wonderful Sunday muffins.

Try 'em out! You won't regret it!

1 pkg. Jiffy Muffin Mix

1 egg

1/4 cup milk

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Grease muffin pans or use paper baking cups.

Blend ingredients. Batter will be slightly lumpy.

Fill muffin cups 1/2 full.

Bake 13-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Makes 6 muffins per box.

Cool and serve. Yummy!

Italian Chicken and Egg Noodles

2007-11-09T17:54:00.000-08:00

OK. So this one didn't look so great. But apparently SOMEONE liked it!

Itailian Chicken and Egg Noodles (for 2)

2 Chicken Breast cubed

1 bottle (small) of Itailian Dressing

1 red bell pepper

1/2 bag egg noodles

Start cooking your chicken in a skillet with a little oil until the outside isn't pink. Then add about 1/2 a bottle of Itailian chicken (more if you want more) and let it cook at medium heat for about 15-20 mins. Cook as many egg noodles as you would like to eat. Follow the recipe on the bag. Add sliced red bell peppers the last 5-10 mins to your chicken. Place egg noodles on your plate and then scoop the chicken and bell peppers on top. Sometimes I will also throw corn on top of that. Serve while hot!!