tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79870563604868943172024-03-13T23:29:32.416-07:00What's cooking...Sissy?Two sisters miles apart, conquering dinner one night at a timeSarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.comBlogger115125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-5310672336767349072012-04-04T15:00:00.002-07:002012-04-04T15:15:45.534-07:00What we eat for dinner...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nGChFJNQytw/T3yhEcKt-PI/AAAAAAAABWA/5BjtpxbTo3s/s1600/Family+9e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nGChFJNQytw/T3yhEcKt-PI/AAAAAAAABWA/5BjtpxbTo3s/s400/Family+9e.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>I have a simple plan when it comes to dinners for my family. Less ingredients has seemed to equal healthier meals and less expensive grocery bills. Now and I can menu plan and make my weekly shopping list in about five minutes each week. We have made the switch to almost exclusively whole grains (brown rice, whole wheat or corn tortillas and whole wheat pasta). Our menu is pretty repetitive which is what makes it realistic for me to actually get dinner on the table- I don't have to think about it too hard! The kids honestly don't seem to mind.<br />
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<b>Monday: Spaghetti or Pasta</b> (Once a month I make a huge batch of sauce with ground turkey. I throw in extra veggies such as shredded carrots or zucchini and freeze it in one quart containers). I serve with a big salad and we usually skip the garlic bread. If I serve pasta (like whole wheat rotini, I add roasted veggies and bake with a little mozzarella on top). This can get boring for Eric and I, so I try to make a yummy side such as green beans with caramelized onions and cherry tomatoes if I have the time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3vsorSebs7E/T3yqZYenO0I/AAAAAAAABWI/IYtX5lnNx18/s1600/barilla.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3vsorSebs7E/T3yqZYenO0I/AAAAAAAABWI/IYtX5lnNx18/s1600/barilla.jpg" /></a></div><b>Taco Tuesday </b> (Once a month I make a large batch of seasoned ground turkey or chicken with onions and peppers and freeze it in one quart freezer bags). Sometimes instead of tacos I turn it into taco salad or add tomatoes and beans to make chili in the crock pot. I've finally mastered pinto beans in the crock-pot so that is a really inexpensive side. To mix it up I buy Baked Tostitos and make (or buy) a yummy salsa.<br />
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<b>Wednesday: Soup or Salad</b> My family loves chicken noodle soup (This is the one recipe where I haven't made the switch to whole wheat pasta.) We also like minestrone. In the winter I try out different soups but those two are our favorites. During warmer months we love BBQ Chicken Salad and Chinese Chicken Salad. Sometimes the kids eat these salads "deconstructed". So maybe some bbq chicken, corn, cucumber slices and black beans. But two of the four kids will eat salad. I usually serve the whole grain loaf from the bakery at Costco. Sometimes we make sandwiches and have a picnic at the park.<br />
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<b>Thursday: New Recipe </b>This is when I try out something new. This is also the night we typically BBQ. We like grilled fish, skirt steak and also grilled chicken with<a href="http://www.kalynskitchen.com/2007/07/worlds-best-tzatziki-sauce-recipe-greek.html"> tzatziki sauce</a> and whole wheat pita bread. I try to serve whatever produce is in season (like artichokes or butternut squash). I like to have a nice family meal on Thursdays. Sometimes we will use cloth napkins and light a few tea lights. It feels like it kicks off the weekend early.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img4.myrecipes.com/i/recipes/ck/11/04/vegetable-pizza-ck-x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img4.myrecipes.com/i/recipes/ck/11/04/vegetable-pizza-ck-x.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<b>Friday: Pizza </b>At least once a month we make homemade pizza with <a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/thin_crust_pizza_dough.html">whole wheat dough</a>. Sometimes we get a "you bake" (I really like Papa Murphey's delite pizzas) or we go out as a family. I typically top our pizzas with things like chicken, veggies, Italian turkey sausage or pineapple. Sometimes we do English muffin pizzas. If we eat at home I always serve a vegetable tray with homemade yogurt ranch or a big salad. I am not hard core- I do let Ben get pepperoni sometimes- because he loves it.<br />
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<b>Saturday: Date Night </b>I struggle with what to serve the kids on this night. I have found defrosting some of my homemade sauce and cooking pasta is just as easy as a box of marconi and cheese (and healthier). The kids never get sick of this and it is easy for our babysitter. They usually have popcorn for dessert.<br />
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<b>Sunday: Family Dinner or Small Group</b> We eat with our small group or we often have family dinners. If we are home, Eric usually cooks or bbqs. Typically something like turkey burgers with sweet potato fries or bbq chicken with brown rice pilaf).<br />
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<b>My tips for menu planning and getting dinner on the table:</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YnuVemool0Q/TSIk0LL5KSI/AAAAAAAABR8/02BtNcNRPDI/s1600/Menu-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YnuVemool0Q/TSIk0LL5KSI/AAAAAAAABR8/02BtNcNRPDI/s400/Menu-2.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br />
1. Post your menu somewhere where everyone can see it. Your family will hold you accountable! <br />
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2. Keep it really simple and don't be afraid of short cuts. Buy that rotisserie chicken or frozen pizza. There is nothing wrong with pre-washed salads and veggies that are prepped and ready. Plan on crazy nights when you don't have time to cook and keep something in the freezer for those days. Don't beat yourself up if everything isn't 100% from scratch! Paying a little extra for healthy "convenience" foods is still less expensive than eating out.<br />
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3. Make the table a positive place. We don't argue about what our kids eat. We do have them try one bite. They are not allowed to criticize what is served or be rude. I don't cook special meals to accommodate their preferences. Usually there is fruit or bread or something they will like. My theory is that if healthy, delicious food is consistently served, they will learn to love it. I'm seeing this happen with my pickiest eater (finally!).<br />
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4. Start dinner after breakfast. I usually take out the meat to defrost. I might make up the salad or vegetable tray. I will try to make the ranch dip or salad dressing early too. Sometimes I set the table during naps or prep the taco toppings. Anything I can do with a few minutes here or there will help make that last hour of the afternoon run smoother.<br />
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Dinner time is my favorite time of the day. We shut off the television and focus on each other. Everyone shares their "highs and lows". I love connecting with everyone and enjoying that time together. It really is worth the work, time and effort to make it happen.Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-21278378981703127202011-01-19T10:28:00.000-08:002011-01-19T10:28:09.107-08:00Menu Monday (on Wednesday...)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TTch78jXkdI/AAAAAAAABTQ/7vKZS6duRLM/s1600/Menu-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TTch78jXkdI/AAAAAAAABTQ/7vKZS6duRLM/s320/Menu-1.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>The MLK holiday has me a bit behind in posting this.<br />
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<div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: orange;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Monday</span><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #93c47d;"> </span>Date Night! Woo-hoo!</span></span><span style="color: black;"></span></span></div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Tuesday </span>Whole wheat penne with Italian turkey sausage, green beans and chopped salad</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Wednesday <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_333614673"><span style="color: black;">Homemade </span></a></span><a href="http://whatscookingsissy.blogspot.com/2007/10/i-make-really-good-chicken-noodle-soup.html">Chicken Noodle soup</a> and whole grain baguette</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Thursday </span>Turkey burgers and baked sweet potato fries<br />
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</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Friday </span>Thai chicken pizza and green salad</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Saturday </span>Chicken Chili (freezer meal) with cornbread</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Sunday Lunch: </span>Shredded Chicken BBQ Sandwiches with Eric's homemade bbq sauce, whole wheat buns and light coleslaw salad</div>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-16592207273159541152011-01-16T16:12:00.000-08:002011-01-16T16:12:46.676-08:00Chocolate Fix<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TTOGypGwWII/AAAAAAAABTI/ajOEle3RqRs/s1600/fudgy-brownies-ck-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TTOGypGwWII/AAAAAAAABTI/ajOEle3RqRs/s640/fudgy-brownies-ck-l.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>It's 7:30 in the evening. The little ones are in bed. You are ready to curl up and watch your favorite show but there is nothing yummy in the house for dessert. And you are trying to keep that new year's resolution about eating healthy. Here is your solution: these <a href="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=10000002012802&adsqs=">fudgy brownies </a>from Cooking Light. You probably have the ingredients in your pantry. It calls for 2 oz of dark chocolate- I don't always have that on hand (because I eat it all!). Once I substituted chocolate chips and one time I used unsweetened baking chocolate and they turned out delish both times! {Can you tell I've been desperate for brownies?}. One more thing- add walnuts. That's for you dad- everything's better with walnuts right?Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-66363379573268043012011-01-14T14:18:00.000-08:002011-01-16T16:14:37.769-08:00Review: Trader Joes Baking Mixes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSYZO8sMPiI/AAAAAAAABSo/3HHAB1Lr1gs/s1600/IMG_1717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSYZO8sMPiI/AAAAAAAABSo/3HHAB1Lr1gs/s320/IMG_1717.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>I like to cheat when it comes to baking. I'm usually all about the cake from a mix and homemade frosting. I did a lot of baking last week for the hubby's big birthday and these mixes were a huge time saver. I also tried out the frosting mix from Trader Joes. It was really good- but basically it was just sugar and coco (you add the butter and whip). So for the cost, I'm not sure if it is worth it just to save measuring out two ingredients.<br />
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Their vanilla bean cake mix is really delicious and the chocolate mix is so much better than grocery store brands. The layers came out perfectly flat which is just what I needed to make a round, layered cake. Letting your eggs get to room temperature is a tip I learned from <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/barefoot-contessa/index.html">Ina </a>and it really makes a difference when baking. By the way,<a href="http://www.surlatable.com/product/PRO-499855/Ina-Garten%27s-Barefoot-Contessa-Outrageous-Brownie-Mix"> Ina's mix for brownies</a> is to die for! It is a little pricey-but maybe for a special occasion. All this brownie talk reminds me that I have actually have found a light recipe for brownies I need to share- you won't believe how good they are.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-23649933206219520212011-01-11T10:20:00.000-08:002011-01-11T10:23:11.796-08:00Extra Large Lasagna<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSYZjy8VIhI/AAAAAAAABSw/m6zeo_OMENg/s1600/IMG_1736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSYZjy8VIhI/AAAAAAAABSw/m6zeo_OMENg/s640/IMG_1736.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>I'm pretty sure this isn't the last time I will make lasagna to feed a crowd so I want to jot down my proportions before I forget. I don't use a recipe- I just basically try to make it as close to my mom and sister's as I can. This would serve 18-20 people easily.<br />
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Meat Sauce:<br />
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1 onion<br />
11/2 lbs ground beef<br />
1 1/2 Italian Sausage<br />
2 6 oz cans of tomato paste<br />
1 large (12 oz?) can of tomato sauce <br />
6 lb 6 oz can whole tomatoes (this is a huge Costco sized can)<br />
{plus garlic and lots of seasonings} <br />
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Other <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">Ingredients</span>:<br />
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2 1 lb boxes of lasagna noodles<br />
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2 32 oz containers of ricotta mixed w/ 4 eggs (use a little less of this next time)<br />
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5 8 oz balls of fresh mozzerella, sliced<br />
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2 cups of parmesan-reggiano cheese, grated<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-984477844022404072011-01-10T11:12:00.000-08:002011-01-10T11:12:02.375-08:00Menu MondayNew week...new menu:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSIk0LL5KSI/AAAAAAAABR8/6N0RF8Vz_zE/s1600/Menu-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSIk0LL5KSI/AAAAAAAABR8/6N0RF8Vz_zE/s640/Menu-2.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"></div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: orange;">Sunday </span><a href="http://whatscookingsissy.blogspot.com/2011/01/shredded-pork-tacos.html">Pork Tacos with Chipotle style sides</a> (cilantro lime rice and pinto beans)</span></div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: orange;">Monday </span><span style="color: #666666;"><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/senate-bean-soup-recipe/index.html">White bean soup</a> <span style="color: black;">(planning to "lighten" this Paula Dean recipe a bit) </span></span></span></div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: orange;">Tuesday </span>Taco Salad (w/leftovers from Sunday)</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: orange;">Wednesday </span>Cheese Tortellinis with light cream sauce and peas<br />
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</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: orange;">Thursday </span>Breakfast for Dinner: Crust-less Ham and Cheddar Quiche (We didn't end up having this last week)<br />
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</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: orange;">Friday </span>Pizza with chicken sausage and veggies</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: orange;">Saturday </span>Kids and Eric: Leftovers? Sara: Par-tee!(not very nice of me- I will have to work on this)</div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: orange;">Breakfasts:</span></span><span style="color: orange;"> </span><span style="color: black;">More of the same </span>-<a href="http://www.quakeroats.com/cooking-and-recipes/content/recipes/recipe-detail.aspx?recipeId=580">Baked Oatmeal</a>, <span style="color: black;">Greek Yogurt with homemade </span><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/homemade-granola-recipe/index.html">Granola</a>, <span style="color: black;">Eggs with Double Fiber English Muffins, Cereal</span><br />
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</div></div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: orange;">Lunches:</span> </span><a href="http://whatscookingsissy.blogspot.com/2011/01/mad-hungry-for-lentil-soup.html"></a> <span style="color: black;">PB & J, Turkey Wraps/Sandwiches, Leftover Tacos</span></div>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-78825947265221547042011-01-08T15:10:00.000-08:002011-01-08T15:10:00.775-08:00Ina's Granola<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSYX6lKajPI/AAAAAAAABSU/AS5Rx3VXo-8/s1600/jar+of+granola-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSYX6lKajPI/AAAAAAAABSU/AS5Rx3VXo-8/s640/jar+of+granola-2.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>This was a last minute Christmas week project. Our friend brought us some bags of almonds, cashews and dried fruit from a farmer he knows. I knew immediately that I needed to make <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/homemade-granola-recipe/index.html">Ina's granola</a>. I needed a gift for a neighbor and for someone else on my Christmas list, so this worked out perfect. And it is a healthier option for this time of year.<br />
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This recipe is really flexible- you can leave out what your family doesn't like or add almost anything. I add cinnamon, but you could add vanilla. <br />
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[Gift tags from <a href="http://www.tinyprints.com/shop/custom-gift-tags-stickers.htm">Tiny Prints</a>]Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-51209341630775432022011-01-06T09:11:00.000-08:002011-01-06T13:26:37.531-08:00Round Table<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSUoj50eMVI/AAAAAAAABSQ/SvZYUAEObgw/s1600/shyane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSUoj50eMVI/AAAAAAAABSQ/SvZYUAEObgw/s400/shyane.jpg" width="400" /></a>Seeing a picture of this <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/shayne-kitchen-table/?pkey=cdining-tables-values#BVRRWidgetID">table </a>today made me think about my <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/shayne-kitchen-table/?pkey=cdining-tables-values#BVRRWidgetID">sister</a>. She wants a new white round table. Actually I think she wants my table--but that is a long story about a little scheme we are cooking up. My table is a hand me down from my parents--the table I grew up with. It has two leaves, but I really prefer to keep it round. Now that Georgia sits at the table (because Charlotte is in the high chair) the five of us are a bit of a squeeze. But I love the way it feels with us all close. We can all reach to hold hands to say grace before we eat. We are close enough to cut food for the little ones and passing food is easy too.<br />
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My favorite time of day is that moment at the dinner table just after the amen when I can take a deep breathe and share another meal with my sweet family. We've all heard the studies about the importance of family meals, but I don't need research, I know first hand how dinner around my table grounds us and connects us.<br />
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*For Sissy: The gorgeous jars of orange marmalade on the table reminded me of you too. I love the yummy tangerine marmalade you made last year. You should share that recipe one of these days.*Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-70129491355247609332011-01-04T23:01:00.000-08:002011-01-04T23:01:04.085-08:00Baked Oatmeal<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSQNBMj9zuI/AAAAAAAABSA/VOxVuszP7Bc/s1600/breakfast-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSQNBMj9zuI/AAAAAAAABSA/VOxVuszP7Bc/s400/breakfast-5.JPG" width="266" /></a>I've been looking for some new breakfast ideas. My oldest does not like eggs. What I love about this recipe for baked oatmeal is it uses eggs and milk. Good stuff to start my boy's day out right! I bake it in these <a href="http://www.pamperedchef.com/our_products/catalog/product.jsp?productId=9792&categoryCode=KW">glass cups</a> and save a few in the fridge for the upcoming week. It's almost better reheated the next day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div id="crumbBack"></div><span class="h4"> Ingredients</span> <br />
<ul><li>2 1/4 cups oats (quick or old fashioned, uncooked)</li>
<li>1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar (or brown sugar Splenda)</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>3 cups milk (2 percent)</li>
<li>3 eggs, well beaten</li>
<li>1 tablespoon melted butter (optional)</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla</li>
</ul>Optional additions: <br />
<ul><li>1/2 teaspoon maple extract</li>
<li>3/4 cup raises</li>
<li>1/2 cup toasted walnuts</li>
</ul> Heat oven to 350ºF. Spray 8 (6 oz.) custard cups or ramekins with nonstick cooking spray; arrange on rimmed baking sheet.<br />
<ul><li> In large bowl, combine oats, brown sugar and salt; mix well. In medium bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, butter, vanilla and maple extract. Add to dry ingredients; mix until well blended. Spoon into cups. Stir raisins each cup, dividing evenly; sprinkle evenly with walnuts (if using).<br />
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Bake until knife inserted near center comes out clean, about 23 to 26 minutes for Quick Oats, 25 to 30 minutes for Old Fashioned. (Centers will not be completely set.) Cool 10 minutes.<br />
</li>
</ul>Prep Time: 10 min<br />
Cook Time Time: 25 min <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSQTNix6uMI/AAAAAAAABSI/wograrSHcMc/s1600/breakfast-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSQTNix6uMI/AAAAAAAABSI/wograrSHcMc/s320/breakfast-6.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<ul></ul>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-6859800493574536602011-01-03T23:33:00.000-08:002011-01-03T23:33:50.679-08:00Shredded Pork TacosThis week my hubby is having a BIG birthday. So I'm busy planning, shopping and cooking. For his family birthday party he requested Mexican food and a game of Mexican Train Dominoes. I love a theme! There may be Mariachi music and pinata too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/pub/everyday_food/2006Q3/edf_0906_wkd_porktacos_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Shredded-Pork Tacos" border="0" class="border" src="http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/pub/everyday_food/2006Q3/edf_0906_wkd_porktacos_l.jpg" /></a></div>I'm going to make these<a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/portal/site/mslo/menuitem.aced15a43a1d10e593598e10d373a0a0/?vgnextoid=10e4b276b490f010VgnVCM1000003d370a0aRCRD&vgnextchannel=150914daf3a50110VgnVCM1000003d370a0aRCRD&vgnextfmt=print&currentslide=1&page=1"> pork tacos</a> (at my sissy's recommendation) with <a href="http://www.chipotle.com/">Chipotle </a>style sides (cilantro rice, pinto beans and corn salsa). Everyone can build their own burrito, tacos or "bowl". I think this will work great with kids- everyone can customize their meal just how they like it.Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-81792493222062191952011-01-03T08:46:00.000-08:002011-01-03T11:42:20.324-08:00Menu Monday<div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSIk0LL5KSI/AAAAAAAABR8/6N0RF8Vz_zE/s1600/Menu-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TSIk0LL5KSI/AAAAAAAABR8/6N0RF8Vz_zE/s320/Menu-2.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>What the Karlson's are eating this week:</div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Sunday </span><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tyler-florence/the-ultimate-barbecued-chicken-recipe/index.html">BBQ Chicken w/ homemade sauce</a>, <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/caramelized-cauliflower-mad-hungry">Roast Cauliflower</a> and red potatoes</div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Monday <span style="color: #666666;">Asian Chicken Noodle Soup</span></span></div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Tuesday <span style="color: #666666;">Flat Bread Pizza with Chicken Sausage and Kale</span></div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Wednesday <span style="color: #666666;">Turkey Burgers with Sweet Potato Oven Fries</span><br />
<br />
</div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"></div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Thursday</span> <span style="color: #666666;">Breakfast for Dinner: Crust-less Ham and Cheddar Quiche (Need to plan and pack for the big party!)</span></div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Friday</span> <span style="color: #666666;">Lasagna for Eric's Birthday Party</span></div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Saturday <span style="color: #666666;">Out to eat with kids for Eric's Birthday</span></span> </div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Breakfasts:</span> <a href="http://www.quakeroats.com/cooking-and-recipes/content/recipes/recipe-detail.aspx?recipeId=580">Baked Oatmeal</a>, Greek Yogurt with homemade <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/homemade-granola-recipe/index.html">Granola</a>, Eggs with Double Fiber English Muffins, Cereal<br />
<br />
</div><div style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Lunches: </span><a href="http://whatscookingsissy.blogspot.com/2011/01/mad-hungry-for-lentil-soup.html">Lentil Soup</a>, Tuscan Tuna Salad. Turkey Wraps/Sandwiches</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></div>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-80619189279351397322011-01-01T13:27:00.000-08:002011-01-01T13:27:19.889-08:00Mad Hungry for Lentil Soup!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TR-bi_mJuYI/AAAAAAAABR4/3OEYX4Gug5w/s1600/LENTILS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TR-bi_mJuYI/AAAAAAAABR4/3OEYX4Gug5w/s1600/LENTILS.jpg" /></a></div>Have you seen <a href="http://blog.madhungry.com/">Mad Hungry</a>? It's a cooking show with <a href="http://blog.madhungry.com/">Lucinda Scala Quinn</a> (Martha Stewart's Food Director). I love how she teaches as she cooks and her style is easy and appealing to families. As I type my kids and hubby are finishing up bowls of her <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/lentil-vegetable-soup">Vegetable Lentil Soup</a>. Eric says it is the first he's ever had and he thought is was great--but he likes basically everything. Surprisingly the kids devoured it too. The <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/garlic-croutons-mad-hungry">Garlic Croutons</a> garnishing the top is what I think made it appeal to everyone. Lentils are not something I cook a lot, but I should. They are full of fiber and protein and they are really inexpensive--just what this mama is needing in her kitchen. Did I mention this recipe came together in about 15 minutes? It simmered for 30 more- and was delish!Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-87493817088294708412010-11-17T15:07:00.000-08:002010-11-17T15:07:16.121-08:00Christmas...<div class="MsoNormal">Please don’t mind the break from cooking topics to talk about Christmas!!! I love celebrating Christmas- but it is *sadly* also very stressful for me. So much to do…so little time! And such BIG expectations! (Really that is the problem right there!) This year my goal is breathe and just enjoy the season of life we are in this year. I’ve also realized I have to say no to things I want to say yes too. With four little ones there is only so much of me to go around. That might mean no to parties or events that I would really enjoy- but this just isn’t the year. I’ve considered everything that is a part of our celebration and what will stay and what will go. I even considered emailing Christmas cards {gasp! The horror!}. But ultimately I decided that a family picture was in order this year. Plus, I really do love receiving all those pictures. And for me, email just isn't the same. I haven’t sent a family picture in five years (just pictures of the kids). So two weeks ago we took a family picture (the hard part!) and now my goal is to order my cards BEFORE Thanksgiving.</div><br />
Shutterfly has an <a href="http://blog.shutterfly.com/5358/holiday2010-blog-submission-form/">amazing promotion for bloggers</a> this year. I'm open to giving them a try and honestly I’m really loving <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/holiday-cards">their designs</a> this year. They have new premium paper {which I love} and they are more like matte card stock than glossy photo paper. They even have an offer for a <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery">free card</a> so you can order one and see how you like it. (Which I did by the way and I was really impressed with the quality- you can even add more pictures and/or a letter inside).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TORaaRiNccI/AAAAAAAABRY/mPICIDRiBnM/s1600/xmas+card+sample.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TORaaRiNccI/AAAAAAAABRY/mPICIDRiBnM/s320/xmas+card+sample.jpg" width="231" /></a></div>How cute is this design? Love how the photo is really the star. See- I told you they were cute! The one I'm thinking of picking is similar.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TORbX4Ts6VI/AAAAAAAABRc/KBKO2QB2jb8/s1600/xmas+thank+you.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TORbX4Ts6VI/AAAAAAAABRc/KBKO2QB2jb8/s320/xmas+thank+you.jpg" width="231" /></a></div><div class="msolistparagraph"> How about these cute <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-thank-you-cards?viewAll=true&sortType=1&DCL=true">Christmas thank you notes</a>! Wouldn't it be fun to use pictures from Christmas day to create these? They even have darling <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/photo-gifts/pewter-ornament">ornaments </a>I'm thinking of ordering for Charlie's 1st Christmas ornament.</div><div class="msolistparagraph"><br />
</div><div class="msolistparagraph">Hurry- if you are interested, they have <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery">20% off all cards today</a>- and their prices are better than others I've used in the past.<br />
<br />
Here's to keeping Christmas simple and focusing on what matters. </div><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt;"><br />
</span>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-36843461239033607972010-11-02T00:17:00.000-07:002010-11-02T00:17:10.894-07:00Salmon Citrus Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TM-6V_eTx8I/AAAAAAAABQ8/vZx6fgZI3rw/s1600/Glazed-Salmon-on-Greens-and-Orange-Salad_slideshow_image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/TM-6V_eTx8I/AAAAAAAABQ8/vZx6fgZI3rw/s320/Glazed-Salmon-on-Greens-and-Orange-Salad_slideshow_image.jpg" width="270" /></a></div>We've been eating healthier around my house lately. And we have a new baby...so meals have been less about actual cooking and more about "assembling". This week I'm trying to recreate something I had recently at a local resturant. The most amazing salad ever. I don't have a recipe, but I promise to take notes as I figure it out and let you know how it goes.Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-71386545178488197132010-03-17T15:00:00.000-07:002010-03-17T15:01:41.019-07:00Easy Chocolate Frosting<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/S6FLCJh8L-I/AAAAAAAABQE/qPuG4mLfDzo/s1600-h/shamrock+cupcakes-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/S6FLCJh8L-I/AAAAAAAABQE/qPuG4mLfDzo/s400/shamrock+cupcakes-1.jpg" width="400" /></a><span class="bold red" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am not above using a cake mix. (These cupcakes are a white cake mix with green food coloring). But I always make homemade frosting. Last night I went to make my standard Hershey's frosting (on the can of cocoa powder) when I realized I was out of cocoa powder! </span><br />
<span class="bold red" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span class="bold red" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I found this easy recipe <a href="http://www.cdkitchen.com/recipes/recs/356/Chocolate_Chip_Icing59843.shtml">online</a>. It is almost like a ganache- very thick and fudgy. What I love most is it was so easy- and you don't have to mess with a mixer or sifting powdered sugar. I'm not sure this recipe would be enough for a layered cake, I might double it for that. It frosted about 18 cupcakes. As this frosting cooled, it got a little grainy. I just warmed it for 10-20 seconds in the microwave and is spread perfectly.</span><br />
<span class="bold red" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span class="bold red" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Ingredients:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1 cup sugar<br />
3 tablespoons butter<br />
1/3 cup milk<br />
6 ounces choc. chips (about 1/2 bag)</span><br />
<span class="r-email" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="bold red">Directions:</span></div><div class="plain" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Combine all ingredients except chocolate in saucepan over medium high heat. Stir constantly until melted. Bring to a boil for 1 minute, still stirring. Remove from heat. Add in chips and stir until completely melted. Spread on cooled cake (or cupcakes).</div>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-88076510998126310802010-03-13T10:45:00.000-08:002010-03-13T10:45:21.553-08:00Chicken Pasta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/S5vbAZmj53I/AAAAAAAABP8/JDs1qpFeqG8/s1600-h/pAST-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/S5vbAZmj53I/AAAAAAAABP8/JDs1qpFeqG8/s320/pAST-1.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/S5va69okMTI/AAAAAAAABP0/oZXbdkNWVHY/s1600-h/pAST-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/S5va69okMTI/AAAAAAAABP0/oZXbdkNWVHY/s320/pAST-2.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/S5va07N00oI/AAAAAAAABPs/TzaMxmR3f70/s1600-h/pAST-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/S5va07N00oI/AAAAAAAABPs/TzaMxmR3f70/s400/pAST-3.jpg" width="267" /></a>This pasta recipe was from my friend<a href="http://jonesyfor3plus1.blogspot.com/2010/03/dinner-tonightby-megan-milinovich.html"> Nina's blog</a>. It is actually a recipe she got from her friend Megan (I want to give credit where credit is due).<br />
<br />
I love this pappardelle pasta from Trader Joe's. I used two packages for this recipe and it worked out perfectly.<br />
<br />
This was a big hit with the family and it will a summer favorite for sure. Next time I think I will throw in some grilled veggies and greek olives too. This recipe has a lot of flexibility.<br />
<br />
Did I mention the kids loved it? Go to <a href="http://jonesyfor3plus1.blogspot.com/2010/03/dinner-tonightby-megan-milinovich.html">Nina's blog for the recipe.</a>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-89656078000659972702010-03-05T08:08:00.000-08:002010-03-05T08:08:08.068-08:00Weekly Produce Delivery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/S5EowBlteKI/AAAAAAAABPk/dNC1iCVI1Jc/s1600-h/produce-+farmer+in+the+dale-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/S5EowBlteKI/AAAAAAAABPk/dNC1iCVI1Jc/s400/produce-+farmer+in+the+dale-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Some of you have asked April and I about our produce delivery. We have signed up for a CSA (community supported agriculture) through <a href="http://www.farmerandthedale.com/">Farmer in the Dale</a>. The produce is all local and mostly organic. What we like best is we can select the produce a week in advance. We feel like the price is reasonable and you can't beat the convenience of delivery to your front door!<br />
<br />
Here are some of the benefits I've found since we've started ordering from <a href="http://www.farmerandthedale.com/">Farmer in the Dale</a>:<br />
1.) Cooking with fresh vegetables is a priority because you don't want to waste one bit of this amazing produce! This translates to healthier coking.<br />
2.) Taste- the organic apples, Yukon gold potatoes and the spring salad mix are delicious! They are significantly better than anything I've bought at the grocery store. (Eric doesn't usually like spring mix- but now he does because it is so fresh).<br />
3.) No mater how busy my week is and if I've made it to the store- we have fresh fruit for snacks and veggies to go along with something out of the freezer for dinner.<br />
<br />
Okay- so the question you are asking is how much? We pay $30 a week for 10 units of produce. We split it between the two of us. I still supplement some produce from the grocery store. We do have a local farmers market twice a week but it isn't at the most convenient times and isn't really close to where I live. Plus taking three kids... need I say more? Check out the Farmer in the Dale website for more info <a href="http://www.farmerandthedale.com/">http://www.farmerandthedale.com. </a>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-26216840578663128402010-03-04T10:52:00.000-08:002010-03-04T10:52:43.896-08:00Cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S4_8NEMmYGI/AAAAAAAAAqE/5r3L7B3ogts/s1600-h/2010+03+03_2302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kt="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S4_8NEMmYGI/AAAAAAAAAqE/5r3L7B3ogts/s320/2010+03+03_2302.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our sweet friend brought these cupcakes over for Pete yesterday, are they not the cutest cupcakes you've ever seen? Since I haven't really cooked anything in over two weeks I thought I would post these little beauties. Peter loves them and can't wait to have the last one after lunch today. Thanks Becky!</div>Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064359130618463912noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-90715254662600506132010-02-13T14:45:00.000-08:002010-02-13T19:03:30.001-08:00Chicken Pot Pie<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3cziMpBWYI/AAAAAAAAAoU/8shQHO2oRXs/s1600-h/2010+02+06_2136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3cziMpBWYI/AAAAAAAAAoU/8shQHO2oRXs/s320/2010+02+06_2136.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Chicken Pot Pie is one of my favorite winter time foods. It's warm, comforting and a perfect one dish meal.</div></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3MuqyWpYTI/AAAAAAAAAn0/up5_WemTUlg/s1600-h/2010+02+06_2108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kt="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3MuqyWpYTI/AAAAAAAAAn0/up5_WemTUlg/s320/2010+02+06_2108.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">The players: onion, carrots, celery, frozen peas and of course chicken.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3MuRjLIJNI/AAAAAAAAAns/B9AjFtBZVw0/s1600-h/2010+02+06_2103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kt="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3MuRjLIJNI/AAAAAAAAAns/B9AjFtBZVw0/s320/2010+02+06_2103.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">This is my new favorite and EASY way to cook a chicken (to use for soups, enchiladas, etc.) all you do is wash your chicken, clean out the inside, and put it in a large pot. Add about 2-3 cups of water and lots of salt & pepper. Cook on med-med/high for about 20-30 minutes and then let it sit another half hour or so and it's done. Take the chicken out let it cool and either cut or shred. I cut most of the breast section out for the pot pie and then I'm going to use the rest for chicken enchiladas in a couple of days.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3Mu5rek-rI/AAAAAAAAAn8/ZlEgOrEExlg/s1600-h/2010+02+06_2122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kt="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3Mu5rek-rI/AAAAAAAAAn8/ZlEgOrEExlg/s320/2010+02+06_2122.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">The rest of the players: butter, flour, chicken broth, half-n-half (or cream), salt, pepper and fresh thyme if you have it or dried (that's all I had on hand).</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3czR--7jUI/AAAAAAAAAoM/1KyfNWfOj9o/s1600-h/2010+02+06_2116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3czR--7jUI/AAAAAAAAAoM/1KyfNWfOj9o/s320/2010+02+06_2116.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Okay, the process: Get out a Dutch oven or good size heavy bottom pan and melt the butter, about 1/2 a stick (1/4 cup), add in the mirepoix (carrot, celery & onion) I know it's a fancy French word, but doesn't it sound so much nicer than carrot, celery & onion?? </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Anyway, saute the mirepoix until softened and almost cooked through. Then add in 2-4 Tbls. of flour and cook a couple of minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Add in a couple of cups of chicken stock (I used the stock from the chicken I just cooked, but you could also use store-bought) and stir to mix it will begin to thicken, add more stock as necessary and add about a cup of half-n-half or cream (whatever you have in the fridge). Season with salt and pepper and the thyme (if using fresh just throw a couple of stems in) if using dried add about 1 tsp. Let this cook for a little bit to meld all the flavors.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">In the meantime, cut up your chicken and roll out your pie crust. I just used my standard pie crust recipe from my Williams-Sonoma Baking cookbook. Just use your favorite or you could save a step and buy one. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3MvHAhijgI/AAAAAAAAAoE/SG1P81DTtwQ/s1600-h/2010+02+06_2126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kt="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3MvHAhijgI/AAAAAAAAAoE/SG1P81DTtwQ/s320/2010+02+06_2126.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Add in your chicken to your filling, this will be your last chance to taste and season and adjust any liquid amouts. You want it thick, but thin enough that it's not too solid you want some liquid to come out when you cut into the pie.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Last step! Dump mixture into your pie dish (you can use any casserole dish or make individual pies with oven-safe bowls). And then place your crust on top, pinch the edges and then brush on an egg wash so it will get nice and golden brown.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3MrwaMFX6I/AAAAAAAAAnk/s8zLLr9zt8I/s1600-h/2010+02+06_2134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kt="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3MrwaMFX6I/AAAAAAAAAnk/s8zLLr9zt8I/s320/2010+02+06_2134.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">My pie crust and I had some issues (Sissy is really the expert on pie crusts) so it wasn't beautiful, but let me tell you it still tasted good! Just ask my husband, he couldn't stop eating this meal!! I also did a great thing and doubled the recipes for both the pie crust and the pot pie filling and froze them separately so I can have a super easy dinner in a couple of weeks! Enjoy!</div>Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064359130618463912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-78479692164782672352010-02-09T09:42:00.000-08:002010-02-09T21:23:22.033-08:00Three Bean Dip<div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3BnZ0gCd6I/AAAAAAAAAnc/jCcL1zmzmpQ/s1600-h/2010+02+07_2190.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435958443523602338" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3BnZ0gCd6I/AAAAAAAAAnc/jCcL1zmzmpQ/s320/2010+02+07_2190.jpg" /></a> I made this delicious dip for Superbowl. It was really good! I saw a<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/tasty-kitchen/recipes/appetizers-and-snacks/smoky-and-spicy-black-bean-dip/"> spicy black bean dip</a> recipe on the Pioneer Women's website and thought it looked good, I had wanted to make some kind of bean dip and set out to try this one...with some tweaking.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3Blrz49BVI/AAAAAAAAAnU/xX2MwHQWeV0/s1600-h/2010+02+07_2182.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435956553574057298" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3Blrz49BVI/AAAAAAAAAnU/xX2MwHQWeV0/s320/2010+02+07_2182.jpg" /></a> Here are the players and my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Lysie</span> Lu watching mama...she's going to be a good little cook someday soon. Tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, garlic, orange juice, white wine vinegar (I would have used lime or even lemon juice, but I didn't have either - so I <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">opted</span> for the combo of the two), salt and pepper, oh and beans. (see below) <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3BlrYNKHsI/AAAAAAAAAnM/Mjr8NnEtRLU/s1600-h/2010+02+07_2183.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435956546142609090" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3BlrYNKHsI/AAAAAAAAAnM/Mjr8NnEtRLU/s320/2010+02+07_2183.jpg" /></a>The beans, I opted for a combo of black beans and great northern, there they are in my food processor with a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">chipotle</span> pepper in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">adobo</span> sauce.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3Blq_8E0PI/AAAAAAAAAnE/2ZNcWf9FZpQ/s1600-h/2010+02+07_2184.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435956539628507378" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3Blq_8E0PI/AAAAAAAAAnE/2ZNcWf9FZpQ/s320/2010+02+07_2184.jpg" /></a> Then I tasted it to check the spice, WOW! I knew my husband wouldn't eat this...too hot, so I added about a cup of pinto beans. I'd been cooking beans for two days for my chili and for Elyse so I had some on hand I could add in. (I'm on a kick to use only dried beans these days so I did cook all of these myself, but you could certainly use canned beans.)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3Bkb4EtSrI/AAAAAAAAAm8/EJ8rk5QzXjY/s1600-h/2010+02+07_2185.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435955180307565234" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3Bkb4EtSrI/AAAAAAAAAm8/EJ8rk5QzXjY/s320/2010+02+07_2185.jpg" /></a> Now for the cilantro...don't you just love cilantro? I love cilantro.<br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3BkbH9AqlI/AAAAAAAAAm0/KFQv7dnUmFI/s1600-h/2010+02+07_2186.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435955167390378578" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3BkbH9AqlI/AAAAAAAAAm0/KFQv7dnUmFI/s320/2010+02+07_2186.jpg" /></a> <div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>This is the mixture with the everything added in, I added the tomatoes and onions last and just pulsed it a few times to incorporate, I wanted some of the texture of those two to still be a little chunky so you would know there were fresh ingredients in the dip.<br /></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3BP-r_kIyI/AAAAAAAAAmU/kkBhrZUMEbY/s1600-h/2010+02+07_2187.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435932688616006434" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3BP-r_kIyI/AAAAAAAAAmU/kkBhrZUMEbY/s320/2010+02+07_2187.jpg" /></a> Here it is with a good mound of cheddar cheese on top, I decided to warm my dip. I prefer beans hot rather than cold, so I just popped it in the oven for about 10-15 min at 375 degrees.<br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435932704268078930" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S3BP_mTTz1I/AAAAAAAAAmk/q74kNRatHcg/s320/2010+02+07_2191.jpg" />This is how I served it to my husband, notice that I had to take a couple of bites first!</div><ul><li><div align="left">1 cup great northern beans</div></li><li><div align="left">2 cups black beans</div></li><li><div align="left">1 cup pinto beans (this really could be any combo of beans you have on hand)</div></li><li><div align="left">1 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">chipotle</span> pepper in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">adobo</span> sauce and about a tsp of the sauce</div></li><li><div align="left">juice of 1/2 an orange & 1 tsp white wine vinegar (you could also just use the juice of 1 lime or 1/2 of a lemon instead of the combo)</div></li><li><div align="left">1 clove of garlic - chopped</div></li><li><div align="left">1/4 of a red onion - chopped</div></li><li><div align="left">1-2 tomatoes - chopped</div></li><li><div align="left">salt & pepper</div></li></ul></div></div><br /></div><p align="left">Top with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">cheddar</span> cheese, sour cream and cilantro and serve with chips. Enjoy!</p>Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064359130618463912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-80116072682006242732010-02-07T21:07:00.000-08:002010-02-10T08:25:10.953-08:00Barley Beef Soup<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/S2-cblqFsdI/AAAAAAAABPc/aZCuAokE-Zw/s1600-h/Barley+Beef-1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 271px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/S2-cblqFsdI/AAAAAAAABPc/aZCuAokE-Zw/s400/Barley+Beef-1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435735273038524882" border="0" /></a>I love a really thick soup. Okay- really, I love any soup! I could eat soup for lunch everyday of the year. My whole family really loved this recipe- it is in my file now.<br /><br />P.S. (Aren't my new bowls cute? A gift from my favorite sister in law!).<br /><br />Recipe coming later today...<br /><span style=";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ><o:p></o:p></span>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-41960315766218730542010-02-07T11:00:00.000-08:002010-02-07T11:00:00.220-08:00Potato & Leek Soup<div align="center">Dinner a couple of nights ago was <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/roasted-potato-leek-soup-recipe/index.html">this</a> amazing soup! I had some leeks from <a href="http://www.farmerandthedale.com/">Farmer and the Dale</a> (a local CSA that delivers) and some nice red potatoes and it was raining...it was going to be a match made in heaven.</div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435338578528582050" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S24zo7csOaI/AAAAAAAAAk0/EWtC9Sddkr8/s320/2010+02+05_2137.jpg" /> <div align="center">Here are the Leeks and Potatoes after they have roasted in the oven for a good 40-45 min with some olive oil and salt and pepper...yum! I had to take a taste and make sure they were tender, wow! <em>MENTAL NOTE:</em> make this as a side dish for another meal, maybe with a pork roast or some chicken. This combo is really delicious, you MUST try!</div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435338587138144034" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S24zpbhXtyI/AAAAAAAAAk8/SrvDAhrGtc8/s320/2010+02+05_2142.jpg" /> <div align="center">Here are the leeks and potatoes in the food processor getting ready to be pureed with some chicken stock.</div><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435338595033458002" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S24zp47wpVI/AAAAAAAAAlE/03_DAUxgQ1Y/s320/2010+02+05_2143.jpg" /> And the soup finishing up on the stove, I didn't have any arugula, creme fraiche or shallots, so I can only imagine how much better it is going to be the next time I make it with those three ingredients. I did add some sour cream instead of the creme fraiche and I just topped the soup with Parmesan for garnish.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435343034010283170" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S243sRaTrKI/AAAAAAAAAlM/F9w4854fhHY/s320/2010+02+05_2151.jpg" /></div><div align="center">The finished product waiting to be enjoyed!</div><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435343051685559394" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S243tTQa_GI/AAAAAAAAAlk/2pueWnN8Fxw/s320/2010+02+05_2147.jpg" /></div><div align="center">We rounded out the meal with a salad with chicken, pear, toasted walnuts and a little red onion with a balsamic vinaigrette and this great <a href="http://www.girltalkhome.com/blog/Bread_and_Butter">bread machine white bread</a> that is started in the bread machine and then finished in the oven to give it that 'real bread' look. It is the best and easiest white bread that I've tried so far in the bread machine.</div><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435343047443512402" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-qEt-BrcugA/S243tDdCfFI/AAAAAAAAAlc/qQRxsSB8SLA/s320/2010+02+05_2146.jpg" /></div>Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064359130618463912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-33494794720600720282010-02-06T18:58:00.000-08:002010-02-06T19:17:15.162-08:00February's ChallengeIt's been quite a while since I've posted on this blog. So many excuses to offer, but you don't want to hear my excuses, well maybe just a couple: a baby girl was born, I've been lazy, uninspired about cooking, not constantly uninspired, just not inspired enough to blog about what I've been cooking. I'm sure many can relate to that last excuse.<br /><br />Well, things are changing!! That baby girl is almost a year old and I'm newly inspired these days about many things.<br /><br /><strong>One</strong> is laziness, I'm embarking on new journey of rising early, I've been challenged by a blog I read (you can check it out <a href="http://www.girltalkhome.com/resources#clubs/5oclock">here</a>) to rise at 6am every day. The club is called 'the 5:00 o'clock club, well right now I'm starting slow with 6am. It's a big deal for me! So I'm hoping this will help me fit some more things that I want to do in my day.<br /><br /><strong>Two</strong> is food. Healthy, good, maybe local, maybe organic food for my family. That is what I'm striving for these days. How to make this happen and stay within my budget as well.<br /><br />If you're interested in joining us on this journey and hopefully be inspired with some new recipes, please stay tuned. I promise it will be real, insightful and hopefully attainable.<br /><br />What are your thoughts sis?Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064359130618463912noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-69388419856314662202009-09-11T07:00:00.000-07:002009-09-11T07:00:04.092-07:00Another use for pesto<span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0); font-weight: bold; font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:180%;" >Chicken Fettuccine with Pesto Cream Sauce<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />We love this simple pasta recipe-</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/Sql5znlFWRI/AAAAAAAABPE/OEZeHjP4DkE/s1600-h/chicken_pesto_Pasta.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 281px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/Sql5znlFWRI/AAAAAAAABPE/OEZeHjP4DkE/s400/chicken_pesto_Pasta.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379965157575579922" border="0" /></a> <ul><li>3 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (6 to 8 ounces each)</li><li> Coarse salt and ground pepper</li><li>1 tablespoon olive oil</li><li>1/2 pound fettuccine</li><li>4 cubes (1/2 cup) frozen <a href="http://whatscookingsissy.blogspot.com/2009/09/making-pesto.html">Basil Pesto</a> </li><li>1/4 cup heavy cream</li></ul> <h2 style="color: rgb(102, 51, 51);"><span style="font-size:100%;">Directions</span></h2> <ol><li> <span>Place chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap.With a meat mallet or heavy skillet, pound chicken to an even 3/4-inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper.</span> </li><li> <span>Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet; cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Slice each piece across the grain into 4 or 5 strips; cover to keep warm.</span> </li><li> <span>Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup cooking water. Drain pasta and return to pot.</span> </li><li> <span>In a small saucepan, heat pesto over low until liquefied. Stir in cream; heat until warm.Toss pasta with reserved cooking water and half the sauce. Divide among shallow bowls; top with chicken. Drizzle with remaining sauce.</span> </li></ol> From <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/chicken-fettuccine-with-pesto-cream-sauce"><span class="pub_source">Everyday Food</span></a><span class="pub_date">, September 2005</span>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7987056360486894317.post-40870801982576944402009-09-10T15:05:00.000-07:002009-09-10T15:09:28.095-07:00Spaghetti SquashTrying out this new recipe tonight-<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/Sql4d9kbmHI/AAAAAAAABO8/F8iQzGMVk4M/s1600-h/spaghetti-squash.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YADc18Ju79g/Sql4d9kbmHI/AAAAAAAABO8/F8iQzGMVk4M/s400/spaghetti-squash.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379963686009673842" border="0" /></a><div class="rcpdetail" id="ingredients"> <h2 style="color: rgb(255, 204, 51);"><span style="font-size:100%;">Ingredients</span></h2> <ul><li> 1 spaghetti squash (about 3 lbs.)</li><li> 2 cups milk</li><li> 2 to 3 jalapeños, stemmed, seeded, and chopped</li><li> 2 tablespoons butter, plus more for pans</li><li> 3 tablespoons flour</li><li> 1 teaspoon salt</li><li> 1 cup shredded jack cheese</li></ul> </div><!-- end class="rcpdetail" --> <div class="rcpdetail" id="preparation"> <h2 style="color: rgb(255, 204, 51);"><span style="font-size:100%;">Preparation</span></h2> <p>1. Cut squash in half and scoop out seeds. Poke several holes in skin of squash with a fork and microwave it on high 10 minutes. Squash should be tender when pierced with a fork; if it isn't, microwave on high in 1-minute intervals until tender. Let sit until cool.<br /></p><p>2. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm milk and jalapeños until bubbles form along the edge of the pan. Remove mixture from heat and let sit 15 minutes. Strain and discard jalapeños.</p><p>3. When squash is cool enough to handle, use a large spoon to scrape the strands out of the skin and into a large bowl.</p><p>4. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt 2 tbsp. butter. Whisk in flour and salt and cook, whisking, until flour smells cooked (like piecrust), about 3 minutes. Slowly pour in jalapeño-infused milk while whisking. Reduce heat to medium and continue whisking until mixture thickens slightly, about 3 minutes. Pour mixture over squash and stir to combine. Transfer mixture to a buttered 2-qt. baking dish. Sprinkle with jack cheese and bake until bubbling and brown on top, about 30 minutes.</p></div>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04397978304357913951noreply@blogger.com3