Yummy Eats

How to Cook Steel Cut Oats

2010-04-11T04:50:00.000-07:00

Been talking to alot of people who are having a hard time cooking their steel cut oats... no need to be leery of these amazing yummy grains!

This is what I have found works for me ;)

Hope it works for you too!

Steel Cut Oats

Measure out 4 cups of fresh water, and put into a medium sized saucepan.

I like to put my water on HIGH heat, until it's bubbling.

Measure out 1 cup of your steel cut oats.

When your water is boiling, bring your heat DOWN TO Medium temp.

Add your steel cut oats to the boiling water.

Give it a quick stir after you put the oats in the water.

And just let it simmer and bubble.

Walk by and stir... scrape the bottom of any oats that are sticking.
and let it continue to bubble.

No need to put a lid on it.. it's not necessary.

After about 15 or so minutes of it lightly boiling/simmering...
you are going to see a thick top layer of liquid...
That is super good!
That liquid is the good stuff that lowers your cholesterol :)

Mix that top layer INTO the rest of the oatmeal.

And voila'!

There you have it!

Serve it up with any tastey mix in's of your liking....

We call this one down below, Peanut butter cookie oatmeal ;)

my kid's LOVE it!

Enjoy!

Hello my foodie friends!

2010-02-15T11:38:00.000-08:00

O my gosh! It has been so long since I have posted here... yikes!

Not ignoring, just been on a adventure to a more healthy, vibrant life.... getting my body to it's optimal basel weight.... and have completely went from a sugar, processed, fake food life, to a clean, real, healthy food life!

I am confessing! That is why I haven't been here.... My foodie friend, Bonnie, inspired me to post too about my changes... She is fantastic! If you get a chance hop on over and see what Bonnie is cooking up today!

I have gone completely unprocessed... no more white sugars, white flours, white rice... white nothing! As well as trying to get away from all things boxed, canned and packaged. No more chemicals..additives or preservatives... switched to organic or as close to organic as possible.

It's been an incredible road! I started it last May... completely jumped in with both feet... I have lost 53 lbs... and I feel just terrific! My family is doing terrific! And I so desire to continue this was of eating for the rest of our lives!

So if you were wondering, then I hope that helps a bit! :)

My goal in these next and coming months is to make 50% of my days food choices raw. Meaning 50% of my day being fruits and veggies and raw nuts. I am still in ''researching" mode, and am still trying to find what works best for my body type.... there is SO much out there... eat meat, don't eat meat... eat dairy, don't eat dairy.... sooo much!

So I am going to start posting some of my new tweaked recipes with you! They honestly taste just as good as the originals, and have a plus! They are good for you!

Hugs and loves....

Out of this world Marinated Veggie Salad

2009-09-30T10:57:00.001-07:00

Marinated Veggie Salad

Ok, here it is!!

The salad that so many have been asking for....

Quick warning tho... it's one of "those" recipes.

You know, that eyeball kind of "those" recipes! =)

It's so easy tho, and you can make it to your taste.. so here goes, lovies!

Ingredients:
Hearty veggies coursely chopped (chunky)
1- Red Onion
1- Peeled zuchinni
1-2 - Red bell peppers
1-2 - Peeled carrots
3-4 - Tomatoes
4 - diced garlic cloves
Extra Virgin Olive Oil... cold pressed if possible
5 Tbl. Balsamic Oil

In a large bowl, put in all of those gorgeous chopped veggies.

Oops, I almost forgot the garlic!

Don't look at my cutting board.. I just did some serious chopping on that.. it's not so purdy right now :)

Toss the chopped garlic on top of the veggies.

Drizzle the olive oil over the veggie mix... I like to get my hands in there and toss it gently until those veggies are nice and shiny.

No need to have a pool of oil on the bottom of the bowl, just shiny happy veggies :)

Next add your Balsamic vinegar... I tried to measure this out... try 5 Tbls. at first.
I like my salad really wet, so I added more then 5 Tbls.
But just eye ball it and add it until there is a good amount of balsamic coating your veggies, as well as pooling at the bottom of the bowl.
We want those veggies to soak in all that goodness, and just get more and more flavorful as they wait for you to come and eat them!

Then salt and pepper the veggies to taste! I like alot of salt and pepper.. so add what you like to it!

Toss again!

And that's it!

This is the way I like to eat it... with some cottage cheese... but you can eat it with tortilla chips or pita chips... or just straight up!

Enjoy!

Click HERE to print this recipe out!

Portobello Mushroom Pizza

2009-09-30T09:14:00.000-07:00

Portobello Mushroom Pizza

Lordie, Lordie!

I am about to share one of the most yummy bites to have entered my mouth....

It's my sister's recipe, that I confiscated, urrr, I mean borrowed and it is fabulous!

Ingredients:

Portobello Mushrooms
Favorite marinara sauce
Cheddar or Mozzarella Cheese
Parmesan Cheese
Any kind of yummy toppings that strike your fancy... pepperoni, sausage, veggies

Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 350 degrees.

Wash those beautiful mushrooms, pat dry, and cut off any extra stem on them.

Flip those beauties upside down and spoon on your marinara.

I like mine extra saucie, but add however much makes ya happy!

Sprinkle on that cheese...

I ran out of mozzarella, so I used a marble cheddar that I had,

then added the parmesan on top of that.

And anything that it's the fridge to top that baby.... I had some salami, but was thinking of how fabulous this would have been with black olives, green peppers and some red onion.
But top with whatever you like is just fine.

Put in the oven and bake for around 15-20 minutes.

Look for the mushrooms to be soft, but not mushy.

Serve with a salad, and you have yourself one amazing meal!

Enjoy!

Click right HERE to print this lovey out!

Salmon w/ Pineapple Salsa

2009-07-30T13:00:00.000-07:00

SALMON W/ PINEAPPLE SALSA

by Jamika Pessoa

What a fantastic summer dish! It has gone into my summer dinner rotation! So fresh w/ a sweet/spicy twist!

Here is what you are going to need!

2 limes
3 tablespoon(s) Thai sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoon(s) reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon(s) Dijon mustard
4 piece(s) (6-ounce) skinless salmon fillet
1 1/2 cans of pineapple chunks in natural juices OR 1 small (3-pound) ripe pineapple
1 bag(s) (9-ounce) baby spinach

~ Ok, so first thing is first.... set your broiler to High, and move your oven rack until it is about 6 inches from the heat.

~ Grab a medium sized bowl.

~ Then grate 1/2 tsp of your lime rind into your bowl.

~ Squeeze 3 Tbls. of fresh lime juice into your bowl.

~ Then add 3 Tbls. of your sweet chili sauce. (You will find this in the Asian food aisle of your grocery store.)

~ Then add your soy sauce.

~ And then your dijon mustard.
It's probably just my demented mind, but the mustard pic just cracks me up!
sigh... I digress :p

~ Whisk all that yummieness together....

~ Now what you are going to need to do, is take about 3 Tbl. of this marinade.....

~ And set is aside....

~ Then take your pineapple chunks and toss them into your bigger bowl....
Toss them around in there until they are coated really well.

~ Now take a broiler pan, and cover it with some aluminum foil.

~ Lay out your salmon...

~ Pop it into the oven, and cook for 5 minutes.

Then you are going to pull it out, it won't be done yet...

~ Then with your little bowl of marinade that you had set aside... brush each piece of salmon.

~ Then pop it back into the over for another 4 to 5 minutes.

~ Then serve over a bed of fresh spinach.... drizzle your salsa on the top with pineapple.

We like to eat it with some rice pilaf... but it would be fine all alone!

Enjoy!

Fresh Tomato and Basil w/ Pasta

2009-06-17T05:41:00.000-07:00

Fresh Roasted Tomato and Basil w/ Pasta

Love love Summer veggies, don't you?

Well, I had a bunch of tomatoes that I needed to use up quickly, and this is just the perfect recipe!

Fresh and delicious!

So here we go!

Here is what you need:

1 pound pasta cavatappi or orecchiette
Salt
2 pints grape tomatoes
4 cloves garlic, grated
A few drizzles of extra-virgin olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper and salt
20 leaves fresh basil, roughly chopped or torn
1 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano

Preheat oven 425°F.

Start to bowl your pasta.

Now grab a large glass bowl and place all your tomatoes in it... and don't stop at just grape tomatoes. I had some larger tomatoes that I really needed to use, so I added them also.

Grate your garlic cloves over your tomatoes.

Then drizzle your olive oil over them... don't worry about using too much... it's all good!

Now, get your hands in there, and coat all those babies really well.

Grab a cookie sheet, and place all your tomatoes out evenly on it.

For easy clean up, I like to lay some aluminum foil down on my cookie sheet.

Salt and pepper those babies!

Pop them into the oven.

Check on your pasta. Make sure you don't over cook. We just want it to be al dente.

Reserve 1/2 cup of your pasta water before you drain it.

Chop your basil.

Pour your pasta water into your large glass bowl.

When your tomatoes have burst, take them out of the oven.

And put them into your glass bowl with the pasta water.

Grab your masher, and begin to lightly mash the tomatoes.

Add your Parmesan cheese...

And basil....

Mix, and then add your cooked pasta.

Serve and enjoy!

Fresh Roasted Tomato and Basil w/ Pasta

1 pound pasta cavatappi or orecchiette
Salt
2 pints grape tomatoes
4 cloves garlic, grated
A few drizzles of extra-virgin olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper and salt
20 leaves fresh basil, roughly chopped or torn
1 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano

Preheat oven 425°F.

Begin to bowl your pasta.

Grab a large glass bowl and place all your tomatoes in it... and don't stop at just grape tomatoes. I had some larger tomatoes that I really needed to use, so I added them also.
Grate your garlic cloves over your tomatoes.
Then drizzle your olive oil over them... don't worry about using too much... it's all good!
Now, get your hands in there, and coat all those babies really well.
Grab a cookie sheet, and place all your tomatoes out evenly on it.
For easy clean up, I like to lay some aluminum foil down on my cookie sheet.
Season with salt and pepper
Roast them for 8-10 minutes.
When your tomatoes have burst, take them out of the oven.
Transfer them from the cookie sheet to the large glass bowl.
After your pasta is al dente, make sure you reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Pour the water into your large glass bowl as well.
With a masher, begin to gently mash the tomatoes.
Then add your basil, cheese, and pasta.
Coat well and serve!

Fantastic Southwest Corn and Black Bean Salad

2009-06-13T16:26:00.000-07:00

Fantastic Southwester Corn and Black Bean Salad

Oh this is soooo good! Here is all you need!

2 cups of frozen corn (defrosted)
2 Tbl. chopped cilantro
1/2 cup diced red onion
1 can of rinsed and drained black beans
1 cup of cherry tomatoes (cut into 1/4)
1/2 cup of Ranch Dressing

Alright, this recipe is sooooo easy!

Get yourself a good size bowl, and start chopping! :D

Place ALL your ingredients into your glass bowl.

Make sure your tomatoes are cut into 1/4 pieces.

Pour the ranch dressing over all your fresh ingredients.
Stir gently until all is covered.

And that's it!

Enjoy!

Serves 4. Tastes fabulous alone, but also delish with tortilla chips!

Fantastic Southwester Corn and Black Bean Salad

2 cups of frozen corn (defrosted)
2 Tbl. chopped cilantro
1/2 cup diced red onion
1 can of rinsed and drained black beans
1 cup of cherry tomatoes (cut into 1/4)
1/2 cup of Ranch Dressing

Get yourself a good size bowl, and start chopping! :D
Make sure your tomatoes are cut into 1/4 pieces.
Drain and rinse black beans.
Place ALL your ingredients into your glass bowl.
Pour the ranch dressing over all your fresh ingredients.
Stir gently until all is covered.
Serves 4.

Can be served with tortilla chips as well as served alone!

Hugs....

A Tip on Bananas

2009-06-03T07:41:00.000-07:00

I tried something a couple weeks ago, and have found it to be a success :)

In the past I had always frozen my very ripe and brown bananas for recipes like Banana Bread, and Banana Pancakes.

BUT, did you know that you can freeze your yellow bananas too?

Yeah, you can!

I love fresh, yellow bananas for making smoothies, but they don't stay fresh and yellow for very long.

BUT, I have cracked the code!! Yep, ya heard me right!

This how ya do it!

First get your bananas, freezer bags, and a cookie sheet.

Peel those babies....

Then place them into your freezer bag.

Then get your cookie sheet and lay out your freezer bag on the cookie sheet so that the bananas are flat and in a row.

Put them into the freezer, and when they are frozen, take them off the cookie sheet and store them in your freezer.

Then when you need them, just pull one out of your freezer.

They make fabulous smoothies! :) They do not lose there fresh banana taste!

Mango- Pineapple Smoothie

2009-04-14T11:32:00.000-07:00

MANGO- PINEAPPLE SMOOTHIE

When the weather starts warming up, we break out the blender!

Hot weather = SMOOTHIES around our house!

I have a ton of smoothie recipes, but this one has to be our ALL time fave!

It's an ALL fruit Mango - Pineapple Smoothie... and boy oh boy... watch out!

Ingredients needed:

2 cups of Frozen mango chunks
1 cup of Frozen pineapple chunks
2 cups of Mango/ Passion Fruit Juice or Orange Juice or any other like flavor would work fabulous.
1- NOT over ripe banana

All that you need to do is toss all the above ingredients into the blender....

And blend, blend, blend...

When your smoothie is smooth, pour into a glass and enjoy!

If you want something frozen, this recipe makes fabulous sorbet also!

Enjoy!

Incredibly Delish Banana Bread

2009-03-10T15:01:00.000-07:00

Incredibly Delish Banana Bread

I love it when my bananas look like this!

There are so many possibilities for them...

But my favorite is that I get to make this :)

Oh, this is THE best banana bread recipe EVER!

Here is what you need:

3/4 cup butter
1 1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 c mashed ripe bananas
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups flour
1 tsp. baking soda
3/4 salt
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup brown sugar ( for topping)

Okay let's get those bananas! Put them in a bowl.

And start to mash those babies until they are good and runny :)

In a mixing bowl, cream your butter.

Then add your mashed bananas, eggs and vanilla.

Mix until all blended.

Then in a separate bowl, sift your flour, salt and baking soda.

Now measure out your buttermilk :) Mmmm love this stuff!

And begin to alternate adding a little bit of your flour mixture to your wet mixture, and then a little bit of your buttermilk as you continue to mix it.

Alternate the flour and buttermilk into the wet mixture until all is mixed well.

Alright, now you need your loaf pans.

Grease and flour those little guys.

Pour batter into the loaf pans about half way.

Measure out your brown sugar... a 1/2 a cup per loaf.

Smooth the brown sugar with your hand until it's even.

Bake at 325 for 1 hour or until a toothpick is inserted and comes out clean.

And there you have it!
The most yummiest banana bread your taste buds have ever set their buds on!

Incredibly Delish Banana Bread

See Incredibly Delish Banana Bread on Key Ingredient.

Cinnamon Roll Toast

2009-03-02T20:12:00.000-08:00

Cinnamon Roll Toast

Talk about easy and yummy!!

Cinnamon Roll Toast..... my family is head over heals for this super simple breakfast.

Thankyou, to my sweet bloggy friend, Sandra for introducing me to this recipe :)

I used 100% whole wheat bread, and it was fabo! But you can use white or 50%/50% bread if you don't like the whole wheat... whatever makes your mouth water!

Ingredients you need:

bread
1 stick of softened butter
3 - 4 Tbl. cinnamon (depends on how cinnamony you like it)
1 cup powerdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla
3 Tbl. water

Heat up that griddle.

sigh... I love my griddle! Have you met him?? Isn't he muy dreamy?

I forgot to pull my butter out of the fridge, so I just popped it in the microwave for 15 seconds.

Combine your softened butter with cinnamon. Mix it well.

Now butter both sides of your pieces of bread.

Now put those cinnamony slices of heaven on your griddle.

Grill them until they are golden brown and toasted on both sides.

While those are cooking, grab a small bowl and combine the powdered sugar, vanilla and water.

You are going to make a glaze.

When your bread is ready, serve them on a plate and drizzle your glaze all over them.

mmmm... just a little bit more.

Serve and enjoy!!

You won't even know that you are not eating a warm cinnamon bun....

Just click print below for the printable version!

See Cinnamon Roll Toast on Key Ingredient.

For more yummy recipes or to participate in Tempt my Tummy, just click here!

Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

2009-02-24T16:46:00.000-08:00

Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

Have you ever been reading a yummy recipe, only to have it state that serving it with a particular side dish would be amazing?

Well Garlic Mashed Potatoes was that side dish for me.

And this is a recipe that is probably very common to most, but I was clueless as to how to make it.

So today I am gonna show ya how to make the most yummy and most creamy
Garlic Mashed Potatoes in the world :)

Ingredients you'll need:

8 red potatoes, washed and cleaned
4 cloves of garlic pealed
salt to taste
1 stick of salted butter
1/2 cup milk

Get out that nice big sauce pan, fill it with H2O...
I like to salt mine with just a good pinch of salt... and bring it to a boil.

Now while it is coming to a boil, get your red potatoes and run them under some cool water.... if there is any dirt, rub it off under the water with your hand. Cut your potatoes into good sized quarters... keep the skins ON :) Isn't that awesome?? No pealing these tators! Place your potatoes and 4 garlic cloves in the boiling water and cook them on medium high heat until done.

To test a potato, all you have to do is grab a fork and start pokin.

Melt your butter in the microwave.

Put all the cooked potatoes and garlic into a mixing bowl.

Add your melted butter, 1/2 cup of milk, and a couple pinches of salt.

Mix until smooth and creamy.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Now you know when a recipe calls for Garlic Mashed Potatoes... you are all set!

Ingredients you'll need:

8 red potatoes, washed and cleaned
4 cloves of garlic pealed
salt to taste
1 stick of salted butter
1/2 cup milk

Get out that nice big sauce pan, fill it with H2O...
I like to salt mine with just a good pinch of salt... and bring it to a boil.
Now while it is coming to a boil, get your red potatoes and run them under some cool water.... if there is any dirt, rub it off under the water with your hand.
Cut your potatoes into good sized quarters... keep the skins ON :)
Place your potatoes and 4 garlic cloves in the boiling water and cook them on medium high heat until done.
Melt your butter in the microwave.
Put all the cooked potatoes and garlic into a mixing bowl.
Add your melted butter, 1/2 cup of milk, and a couple pinches of salt.
Mix until smooth and creamy.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

The BEST Goulash

2009-02-02T07:00:00.000-08:00

Goulash

Oh, watch out!

I can't wait for you to try this recipe...
It's not only SUPER easy, but it is packed full of amazing flavor!
Serve it with a side salad and garlic bread... and you have one tasty meal!

Here is what you need:
1 - package sweet Italian Sausage
1/2 of a chopped sweet onion
1- package of Penne pasta (Trader Jo's makes THE BEST whole wheat pastas)
1 - 28 oz can diced tomatoes
1/3 cup ketchup
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp. chili powder
1/8 tsp ground pepper
1 Tbsp. sugar and raw works great with this recipe.

First thing's first...

Cook your pasta until al dente, and drain it.
Set it aside.
If you cook it too long, it gets way too mushy by the end.

Then, brown your sausage and your onion.

Drain well.

And now add your diced tomatoes, ketchup and all your seasonings to your browned meat.

Stir gently until it's evenly dispersed.

And now grab your drained pasta and add it to the mixture.

Now mix the pasta and the tomato/meat mixture until the pasta is coated and everything is evenly dispersed.

Now grab a casserole dish, and put your goulash into the dish.

Sprinkle some cheese on the top.

Cook for 30 minutes, uncovered at 350 degrees.
Just until it's heated through and the cheese has melted and is a little golden.

Serve and enjoy!

It's so good!
I am actually making this tonite for company!
I love all the mmmmm's and groans that come out of people's mouths when they eat this dish..
It really is that good!

The BEST Goulash

1 - package sweet Italian Sausage
1/2 of a chopped sweet onion
1- package of Penne pasta (Trader Jo's makes THE BEST whole wheat pastas)
1 - 28 oz can diced tomatoes
1/3 cup ketchup
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp. chili powder
1/8 tsp ground pepper
1 Tbsp. sugar and raw works great with this recipe.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
Cook your pasta until al dente, and drain it.
Set it aside.
Next, brown your sausage and your onion. Drain well.
Add your diced tomatoes, ketchup and seasonings. Stir until mixed well.
Add your drained pasta, and stir gently until pasta is coated and everything is evenly dispersed.
Get a casserole dish and place all your yummy goulash fixin's in the dish.
Cover the top with cheddar cheese.
Cook for 30 min. until everything is heated through and the cheese is melted and a little golden brown.
Serve and enjoy!

Breakfast Casserole

2009-01-27T05:51:00.000-08:00

Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients you will need:

2 packages of sausage
1 package of bacon... I like the Thick sliced.
1/2 cup of chopped onion
4 cups of hash browns, shredded style
2-3 cups shredded Colby Jack Cheese or Mild Cheddar
3 beaten eggs
1 cup milk
salt and pepper to taste
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.

Ok!

Now in a skillet, brown your sausage and onion.
Drain well.

Next cook up your bacon until crispy.

(At this points, I LOVE to cook my bacon in the oven. For this method, please click here. Oh it makes making bacon a snap!! Why didn't I know about this sooner!)

If you have never tried this method,
you have to give it at least one try!
It's really fabulous!

Then place them on top of a paper towel to drain all the extra grease.

When cool, chop up all that bacon into bits.

In a casserole dish or a 8x8x2 square dish,
begin to layer:
First goes in the hash browns,

Then some of your cheese..
We like ALOT of cheese..

Then your sausage mixture.

Now another layer of cheese.

Now all your bacon goodness...

And last but not least....
One more layer of cheese.

Now grab a bowl and place your 3 eggs, milk and salt and pepper..
whisk all that up until smooth.

Then pour over the top of your casserole..
Try to make it sure it is evenly dispersed on the top.

Isn't that so purdy?

Ok, now pop that into a 350 degree oven.
Bake for 1 hour.
Take it out and let it rest for about 10 minutes.

Serve and enjoy!

Breakfast Casserole

2 packages of sausage
1/2 cup of chopped onion
1- package of bacon..cooked and chopped into small pieces
4 cups of hash browns, shredded style
2-3 cups shredded Colby Jack Cheese or Mild Cheddar
3 beaten eggs
1 cup milk
salt and pepper to taste
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.

In a skillet, brown your sausage and onion.
Drain well.
Next crisp up your bacon,
In a casserole dish or a 8x8x2 square dish,
begin to layer:
all the hash browns,
cheese,
sausage mixture,
cheese,
chopped bacon,
cheese.

Then combine the eggs, milk and salt and pepper.
Pour over the top of the cheese.

Now you can cover it, refrigerate and bake it in the morning..
or
Bake right away in a 350 degree oven for
1 hour.

Let it stand for about 10 minutes.
Serve and enjoy!

Breakfast Casserole

This is one of my families FAVORITE breakfast meals! My ...

See Breakfast Casserole on Key Ingredient.

Turkey Meatloaf

2009-01-21T07:05:00.000-08:00

Turkey Meatloaf

This is my hubbies favorite favorite dinner! Serve it with a veggie side and mashed potatoes and you have yourself one yummy meal!

Don't let the turkey detour you! This is my number one recipe that I am asked for...really really!!

Ingredients you will need:

1 pkg of ground turkey
1 egg
1 onion diced and chopped finely
1/2 cup bread crumbs
salt and pepper

Sauce:
2/3 cups Ketchup
3Tbl. brown sugar
2-3 Tbl. Worstershire Sauce

Combine all ingredients into a bowl and mix well.

You have to get your hands in this one :)

Put into a loaf pan and pop it into a 350 degree oven for 40 minutes.

Next take your sauce ingredients: Ketchup, brown sugar and Worstershire.

Double the recipe if you would like some extra sauce for the table.

Mix it together... until it's smooth.

Pull out your meatloaf, pour sauce over and bake for another 10 more minutes.

Serve and enjoy!

Makes amazing meatloaf sandwiches too...;)

Got Lemons??

2009-01-20T16:49:00.001-08:00

Just wanted to share a tip for those of you that have lemons coming out of our ears!

This was a tip that I read years ago, and it makes my summer oh so refreshing!

I mean, come on, you can only have lemon squares, lemon chicken and lemon linguine so many times...right?

First take all those lovlies, and give them a good wash.

Dry 'em off.

Then slice them into wedges.

Then you want to get yourself some ziploc freezer bags.
And make a single layer of lemon wedges in the bag.

Then get a cookie sheet and place all your bags evenly next to each other.

Pop the cookie sheet into the freezer.

And when the lemon wedges have frozen through, you can stack them wherever you would like.

I personally love them in my side freezer door. They fit snug as a bug in there!

Then whenever you have a hanckerin' for some lemon in your water..

Grab a couple of your lemon wedges, and poof, there you have it!

These frozen wonders are also amazing garbage desposal cleaners and refresheners.

Just stick a couple of your frozen lemons wedges down your disposal, turn it on and let the freshness fill your senses... ahhhhhh

For more Tips on Tuesday, please visit the lovely, Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom.

Homemade Pankcake Mix

2009-01-18T07:48:00.000-08:00

Homemade Pancake Mix

I should label this, "Better than Aunt Jemima Pancake Mix"....

It is so easy and sooo good!

It's a half and half mix... meaning half white flour and half wheat... I am going to go more wheat next time and see how it goes.

Here is what you are going to need.

Ingredients:
3 cups Whole Wheat Flour
3 cups All-purpose flour
2/3 cups of sugar
2 Tbls. baking powder
1 Tbl. baking soda

Get a Ziploc bag and put all the dry ingredients in and shake it up until well mixed!

Shake it up, oo-oo
Shake it up, yeah yeah
Shake it up, oo-oo
Shake it up

Now to make 1 batch of pancakes:
Just measure 1 cup of your new awesome pancake mix
1 egg
3/4 cup milk

Then crank up your stove to medium heat....

Get that griddle out...

And make you some pancakes!

Tonite was my Twinkle's choice to have chocolate chip pancakes.

Aren't they purdy??

I made mine with fresh blueberries...and REAL maple syrup and butter.
No fake nothin on these babies!

Is that not just a slice of heaven right there??

The best Salsa EVER plus a surprise...

2009-01-17T09:07:00.000-08:00

The Best Salsa EVER

Oh.... this is the most amazing salsa... plus at the end there is a little surprise.

This is my baby sister's recipe and I LOVE her for sharing her secret with me!

I have a version that is quicker and out of the can, but there is just something marvelous about fresh ingredients.... plus, you know I love to chop! :)

Here is what you are going to need:

8 - ripe tomatoes
1- yellow pepper
1-2 bunches of green onions
3-4 garlic cloves
1- bunch of cilantro
1/2 can diced chilies or fresh

Oh oh and get your garbage bowl....
You know what that is don't ya??

Oh I love my garbage bowl! It rocks my socks!

I love Rachael Rae for introducing it to me to the concept of the Garbage Bowl while cooking..
but I took it one step further....
grab one of your veggie bags,
open him up,
place him over your garbage bowl
and
wrap the sides around your bowl.

Just try it... trust me... you are going to love using it.
You'll thank me later.. I promise.

Ok, now let's go!

You can use a food processor, blender or food chopper for your tomatoes.

I used my food chopper.

Cut your tomatoes in quarters and blend away.

You don't want to completely puree, but do blend until it is looks like this...

You know, come to think of it... I think this probably is pureed! LOL!

Moving on...

Chop your remaining ingredients...
yellow pepper, green onions, garlic cloves, cilantro, and green chiles.

You have to do this part with your knife... it's a chunky salsa, remember!
If you want your chopper to do the work for you, you are going to have more of a super diced salsa.
Up to you, but I like mine with some chunk to it!

Also add salt and pepper to taste.

I am a salt freak!

So I like my salsa on the salty side :) ... but go as you see fit!

Stir until blended well.

Now this salsa could be set to go... but I like to add my surprise to it...

Oh yes yes....

These little guys...

Meet Mr. Avocado.... mmmmmm....

Just stir him in gently...

And there you go...

Welcome to my happy place!

Oh oh oh and remember your garbage bowl....

Just pull up that little plastic bag

Tie it up and toss it!

And then love that you have one less dish to wash!

O my! It's Caramel Pie!

2009-01-08T14:24:00.000-08:00

Caramel Pie

Oh lordie... this is one dessert that you have to try at least once!
Because if you do, then you will want to keep making it and making it and making it...
Cause you are gonna LOVE it!

A slice of Caramel Pie and a cup of coffee is the perfect dessert!

My mother demanded I make it for Christmas...ok maybe she didn't demand it, but she did ask because whenever it is made it makes everyone so happy and the pie is gone gone gone....

This is my sister's recipe and I love her for introducing it to me...

Ok, enough talk, let's get this baby cookin!

Ingredients you will need:

3 cans Sweetened Condensed Milk
1 - made or pre-made Graham Cracker Crust
Mini-Chocolate Chips
Pecan or Walnuts chopped finely.(optional) ( I have a nut allergy boy, so no nuts for us.)
Cool Whip Whipped Topping

Ok, now go grab your crock pot.

You can make the caramel 1 of 2 ways..

I have made this recipe successfully both ways. The first way is alot easier than the second.

1: Take the labels off your sweetened condensed milk and place them unopened on their sides in your crock pot and cover them with water.
Turn your crock pot on HIGH and cook those babies in the can for 5 hours.
Take them out and let them cool completely before opening.

OR

2: Open each can and pour the sweetened condensed milk into your crock pot.
Put the crock pot on LOW and cook and stir your yummy goodness until it is caramelized..which is when it turns peanut butter color. Stir it about every 10 to 15 mintues... whenever you walk by basically, scraping the sides. It will take a few hours.. don't let that detour you tho.

But if I was you.. I would cook it the number 1 way.. it's just so much easier!

As you can see, I wanted to make my caramel the first way... I was PLANNING on making it the number 1 way, but got distracted talking to my best pal on the phone.. and well... I don't know what I was thinking.. I opened my can... and that is where I ended being forced to make my caramel the number 2 way :)

Make sure after you pour your canned heaven into the crockpot, that you walk by often, and scrape the sides and stir. Like this...

It's going to turn an amazing medium peanut butter color...

Now it's time to pour your caramel into your graham cracker crust.

.

Smooth it out.

Make sure you go back and scrape your crock pot of all this heavenly goodness.
Hate for it to go to waste, right??

Then grab your chocolate... and sprinkle those little morsels all over the hot caramel.
If you are going to use nuts, then this would a great time to sprinkle them over the hot caramel also.

Let it cool.

Then dish out your whipped topping on top of all that caramelie goodness...

Decorate with some more sprinkle of mini-morsels and nuts if you are using them :)

And just enjoy every bite! I think it's as close to heaven as one could get... and almost better.... almost better than . . . :)

Crazy Good Corn Chowder

2009-01-05T18:06:00.000-08:00

Crazy Good Corn Chowder

Ingredients you'll need:

4 Tbl. butter
6 Tbl onion, chopped
3/4 celery, large dice
2-1/2 cups HOT water
2 cups red potatoes, cut into bit size pieces
1 quart half & half
3 cups frozen corn
2 Tbl. sugar
2 tsp. salt
1 pinch of white or ground pepper
3 Tbl. flour

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Then add your onion and celery and let that simmer until soft, but not brown.

Add hot water, potatoes, corn and seasonings (sugar, salt and pepper). Cover and simmer until the potatoes are barely tender.

Now I have to show you one of my Christmas presents!
I have to be the only woman in the world that LOVES appliances as gifts!

Meet my newest addition.... love em!

Ok, let's get back to the chowder!

Now whisk the flour into 1 cup of the half and half.

Stir that into the soup.

Add the remaining 3 cups of half & half. Then just let the soup simmer. Stir frequently, until the soup starts to thicken and has a creamy consistency.

Stir frequently, until the soup starts to thicken and has a creamy consistency.

Salt and pepper more to taste, if needed. If you would like the soup a little thinner, add a little milk.

Enjoy!

Sweet and Sour Chicken

2008-12-14T16:36:00.000-08:00

Sweet & Sour Chicken

Ingredients:
3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts ( I like to cute mine into tenderloins..stretches the chicken a little bit more.... I think it takes in more of the flavor too when it's cut into thinner pieces.)
1 ~ 8 oz. bottle Russian dressing
1 ~ 10 oz jar apricot-pineapple preserves
1 packet dry onion soup mix

Preheat your oven to 375.
Wash your chicken breasts, and put your chicken into a baking dish. I use a 13 x 9 dish.

In a medium mixing bowl put the dressing, preserve and soup mix and mix well.

Pour over the chicken. Bake for 30 minutes, until done.

Serve over rice or mashed potatoes :)

It's sooooo good! This is one of my kid's favorite dinners. There plates are practically licked clean!

Also like to make a little extra sauce for the rice... it's muy bueno!

Creamy Ranch Dressing

2008-12-10T14:24:00.000-08:00

Creamy Ranch Dressing

Ingredients:
1 cup sour cream
3/4 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup mayonaise
3 Tabl. finely chopped red bell pepper
2 Tabl. minced onion
2 Table. finely chopped cilantro
1 Table. finely chopped garlic
Salt and pepper

In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, mayo and buttermilk until smooth.

Start chopping your red bell pepper, onion, garlic and cilantro.

What is it about chopping??

I love it waaaaaay too much...

And I love this little guy too, when I don't feel like chopping...

Meet Mr. Chops :)

Stir in the bell pepper, onion, cilantro and garlic.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve over a fresh salad, dip or with my Carnita recipe...

mmmmm.... once you try this fresh, homemade ranch,
you will never want to go back to store bought!

Enjoy!

Pork Carnitas

2008-12-10T13:25:00.000-08:00

Pork Carnitas

Ingredients for this recipe:
1~ 3-3 1/2 lb. Pork Tenderloin
1 can of Red Enchilada Sauce ( i like Macayos)
1 can of diced green chiles
1 bunch of cilantro, chopped
1 medium red onion, sliced
6 limes
warm corn tortillas

Ok.... go grab that crockpot and put your pork in it.
Then pour the enchilada sauce over it and then green chiles over that.

Cook it on high for 8 hours.

Then pull out that bad boy and start shreddin'!

Put the shredded pork back into the crockpot with all that yummy sauce.

Now it's time to start chopping up that cilantro.

Mix that with your pork mixture.

Let that just cook while you start to chop your red onions.

Put them into a small bowl and squeeze your lime juice all over them.

Let these marinade for a few minutes.

Warm up some corn tortillas.
Dish some carnita meat into your tortilla and top with some red onions.

This is soooo yummy! Hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

Delicious Baked Acorn Squash

2008-12-09T12:21:00.000-08:00

Delicious Baked Acorn Squash

Ohhhhhh.... prepare your taste buds for a mighty yummy treat!

I forgot to take pics of the first part... sorry..:P

The Ingredients:
Butter
Brown Sugar
REAL Maple Syrup
Salt

First thing is first!

Half those beautiful Acorn Squash, gut them out and wash em' clean :)

Then place them on a cookie sheet.

Salt each one lightly

Then you are going to take a sharp knife and score each squash about 5 times.
Just little lines around it.

Then place 1 Tbl. of butter,
2 Tbl. Brown Sugar
in each squash.

Then grab your maple syrup, and you are going to drizzle all of them... just to whatever makes you happy! Stop when you think it's enough :)

Next, pour a couple of cups of water into the pan, just to provide the squash with a little moist heat while they’re baking.

Cover them with foil and leaving some gaps to let some steam escape.

Bake for 30 minutes at 400 degrees.
Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 to 40 minutes.
Turn on the broiler for the last five minutes to ensure the tops get brown and the butter/sugar mixture bubbles violently for a minute or so.
Watch them...don't leave them too long.
You don’t want to char the tops.

Then pull them out of the oven...

See that yummy liquid in the middle...
You are going to take a spoon and drizzle that yummy goodness all over the top of the squash.

Oh... so yummy!
Why don't ya just do that again...
Go ahead and dip that spoon back in there and drizzle it again :)

They are so purdy!

Then to eat, just dig in with a spoon and enjoy!

Peppermint Pals

2008-12-08T19:29:00.001-08:00

This was something my Sparkle had picked out to do :)

She had gotten the recipe from the December issue of her "American Girl" magazine.

This recipe makes a edible, moldible, taffy candy that you can shape into any kind of Seasonal figure.

We had a lot of fun making these cute little pals!

Sparkle is going to show ya how it is done!

Peppermint Pals

1 Tbl. softened butter
1 Tbl. corn syrup
1/8 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. Peppermint Extract
1 cup of Powdered Sugar

In a mixing bowl cream together butter, corn syrup, salt and peppermint extract together.

Then gradually add powered sugar until it forms a ball.

Watch out for flying sugar!!

Then when you have mixed and kneeded until your arm feels like it is going to fall off,
break your ball into 4 parts, and color each ball whatever color you would like.

You have to kneed the color in with your hand.

Then it's time to kiss the cook!

Then form your Christmas images... candy canes, penguins, Christmas tree...

Hope you enjoy this as much as we did!

Crickle

2008-12-07T09:28:00.000-08:00

CRICKLE

I forgot to take pics while I prepped and cooked... so I am going to borrow from my friends over at Blissfully Domestic.

Here is what you will need.....

Ingredient List:

One sleeve of saltine crackers (ends up being about 36 - 38 crackers or so)
1 cup butter
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
4 (5-oz) Hershey bars, broken into pieces (remember — 5 oz is the big size)

Now do not let the Saltines in this recipe detour ya! They add the bottom crunch, and I would not have even known that they were in this delicious recipe had I not actually made it.
Seriously!

If you love chocolate, toffee and caramel.... this is a must try!

Ok, so first thing is first.... Preheat that oven to 400 degrees :)

Grab a cookie sheet, foil the whole thing and grease completely with cooking spray.

Then layer your Saltines on a foiled cookie sheet...salted side up.

Oh and also chop up your Hershey bars into little 1/4 pieces.

The in a medium sauce pan, melt your butter on medium heat.

Then add your 1 cup of brown sugar to the melted butter.

Bring this mixture to a full boil. Stirring constantly, boil for another 3 minutes.
To make sure that I don't go over the 3 minute mark, I just put my timer on.

Then pour over your Saltines. Use a spoon to evenly cover every part.

Pop that cookie sheet into the oven for just 4 minutes.

It's going to get really bubbly looking.. and that is what you want!

Then sprinkle your Hershey bar pieces over the top of the HOT mixture.

They will begin to melt, and that is exactly what you want!

It is going to start to look like this...

But will eventually completely melt and look like this :)
Just smooth out all that yummy chocolate all over the top of that yummy caramel....

Let it cool completely, and then pop it into the refrigerator.

The chocolate is going to harden.

Then to serve, you just break it off in jagged pieces.... like a brittle.

Enjoy it!

You're gonna love it....

So don't wait long.. try it soon and come back and let me know what you think!

Prep Photos are credited to Blissfully Domestic

7 Ingredient Cheesecake

2008-11-30T08:48:00.000-08:00

7 Ingredient Cheesecake

O my goodness!

This has to be one of the easiest and MOST yummy cheesecake recipes, I have ever tried!

My Sparkle requested a cheesecake for her birthday, so I went searching for this recipe.
It is so easy and turns out perfect EVERYTIME!

2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon cornstarch
4 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
prepared graham cracker crust

Place all 7 ingredients into your blender....
YES! That's right...your blender! Woo hoo!!

Blend all ingredients together in the blender for seven minutes.

Blend for a few minutes until mixture is smooth.

Pour into your graham cracker crust.

You can either make one or just use the premade crusts.

Bake for one hour or until center is just about set.

Let cool and chill completely.

Then you can add anything that you would like on top.

Cherry pie filling, Strawberry pie filling or fresh...whatever fruit filling you like!

Pumpkin Pancakes

2008-11-30T07:53:00.000-08:00

Pumpkin Pancakes

I am all about easy and tastey! :D

And this recipe has become my littlest favorite favorite breakfast request!

2 cups of Pancake Mix
1 can of sweetened canned pumpkin
2 eggs
1 cup milk
2 Tbl. oil
Any extra seasonings that you would like... nutmet, cinnamon, all spice
Season to taste.

Throw everything into a bowl and mix. Measure each pancake by 1/3 cup on to your griddle.

Measure each pancake by 1/3 cup on to your griddle.

Serve with butter and syrup....

Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel Icing

2008-11-09T17:37:00.000-08:00

Pumpkin Cookies

These fall cookies are so tasty with their pillow soft pumpkin flavor and creamy caramel icing!

My honey and kids just loved them!

The icing was a method I had never tried before..it was a lot of fun!

Let me know if you try them and what you think!

1 cup butter

1 cup sugar

1 cup canned pumpkin (you can use the sweetened pumpkin too. Just omit the sugar and cinnamon if you do)

1 egg

1 tsp. vanilla

2 cups flour

1t baking soda

1t baking powder

2t cinnamon

¼ t salt

Frosting

3T butter

½ cup brown sugar

¼ cup milk

1 ½ to 2 cups powder sugar

Cream the butter and sugar together mixing well. Add the pumpkin, egg and vanilla. Mix until well combined. Add the remaining ingredients. Add remaining ingredients. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake cookies at 375 for 10 to 12 minutes. Let cool completely and frost.

To Make Frosting:

In a saucepan on medium heat combine butter and brown sugar. Let it cook until it is smooth and bubbly, be very careful not to let this burn and stir constantly. After it starts to bubble let it cook for one minute. Remove from heat and mix in milk. Add powdered sugar until it is a spreadable frosting consistency. Frost cookies. This frosting will harden rather quickly, so work fast or have a helper to get them all frosted.

Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup

2008-11-07T07:02:00.000-08:00

Oh I love how easy this soup recipe is, and it turns sooo yummy! It really tastes as though you slaved for hours :)

Serve with some warm bread and butter and a salad... the perfect fall meal!

Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup

1 lb. ground turkey (ground beef)
1- 16 oz can of diced tomatoes
1 - 15 oz can tomato sauce
4 1/2 cups Chicken Stock
1 tsp. garlic salt
1 tsp. marjoram
1 tsp black pepper
1 Tbl. diced onion flakes
3 russett potatoes diced
2 cups of frozen mixed veggies

In a large saucepan, brown your turkey meat and drain well.

Add chicken stock, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and all the spices.

Cut up all your potatoes and add them and your frozen veggies to the soup.

Let it cook until potatoes are cooked.

Enjoy!

Caramel Corn

2008-11-07T06:29:00.001-08:00

My family loves this sweet, salty and crunchy fall treat :) It's just so yummy..it's so hard to stop eating it!

I double the recipe so that the Caramel lovin can go on and on!

Caramel Corn

16 cups of popped popcorn (microwave is fine)
1 1/2 c packed brown sugar
1 1/2 stick of butter
6 Tbl. light corn syrup
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Here are the ingredients....

Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
In a medium saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar and corn syrup. Cook and stir over medium heat until mixture comes to a boil. Continue to let it boil at a moderate rate without stirring for an additional 5 minutes. I turn the timer on, so I don't overcook it.

While I am waiting on the mixture to boil, I start on my popcorn.
I used microwave popcorn for this, and the 16 cups was equal to 2 bags popped.
Pick out all the unpopped kernals, and place it in a big bowl.

When the mixture has finished it's 5 minutes... add baking soda and vanilla. Stir well.

Pour the mixture over popcorn; stir gently to coat.

Place on a 17x12x2 pan.. a cookie sheet works really well.

Bake in the 300 degree oven for 15 minutes. Stir mixture, and bake for 5 more minutes.
Spread the popcorn on a buttered sheet of aluminum foil and let cool.
After cooling, break apart all the clusters and enjoy!

Stores wonderfully in a air tight container for 10 days.... not that it will last that long! :)

Crockpot Chili

2008-10-09T13:42:00.000-07:00

Crockpot Chili

Ingredients:
1 lb of ground beef or ground turkey
1 onion chopped
2 Tbl. olive oil
3 - cans of tomato sauce
1 - can diced tomato
3 - cans of Chili Beans salt and pepper to season
2 Tbls. Chili Powder

Brown meat, onion, salt and pepper together and cook over medium heat until done.
Drain well.

Then put the browned meat in to the crockpot.

Add all the remainder ingredients.

Stir until all blended well.

Put the crock pot on high and heat until chili is heat through.

Serve with cheese and onions or whatever else suits your fancy :)

My family likes to eat chili with warm tortillas...but Fritos or crackers work too!

Enjoy!

Egg in a Hole

2008-10-09T06:21:00.000-07:00

My family loves loves loves this when I make this for breakfast!

Egg in a Hole!!

On medium heat, put about 2 Tbls. of butter in your skillet. You do have to use butter! Oh yes!

Then grab your bread and a circle cookie cutter and make your hole. Plop the bread in the skillet.

Crack your egg in the whole.

Wait until the whites are no longer see through on the bottom.

Then flip it to the other side.

We like the good ol' runny yolks, so you are only going to cook this for maybe a minute or so. Just until the whites are cooked, but the yolk is still runny :)

Bon Appetit!