11 Temmuz 2012 Çarşamba
10 Temmuz 2012 Salı
9 Temmuz 2012 Pazartesi
Stroganoff-Style Spaghetti 'n' Meatballs
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This is a true 30-Minute Meal. I had to work late, yada, yada, yada, you know the story. I needed to get something on the table, and fast. Luckily, I remembered this recipe that I saw in a Taste of Home magazine while at my parents. I pulled it up on the computer and had dinner in about 20 minutes. We keep meatballs, turkey and/or beef, in the freezer for times like this. Since the meatballs are pre-cooked, this dish takes as long as it takes for water to boil and spaghetti to cook.
This recipe is great just because we keep these ingredients in the pantry/freezer and it was seriously quick.
The boys really liked this. C requested it be on the "Make Forever" list. It was also a nice change from red sauce spaghetti.
This dish isn't the most photogenic. I will add, there was a nice green veggie on the plate but that got eaten before I remembered to take a picture of the plate.
Stroganoff-Style Spaghetti 'n' Meatballs Recipe
Adapted from Taste of Home
1/2 pound uncooked spaghetti
1 package (12 ounces) frozen fully cooked Italian meatballs
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (I used less)
1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
1/4 cup 2% milk
1teaspoon beef base
1/8 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute the meatballs, onion and garlic in oil for 4-5 minutes or until meatballs are browned. Stir in the soup, milk, beef base and seasoning. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
Gradually stir in sour cream; heat through (do not boil). Drain spaghetti. Serve immediately with meatballs and sauce over spaghetti.
This recipe is great just because we keep these ingredients in the pantry/freezer and it was seriously quick.
The boys really liked this. C requested it be on the "Make Forever" list. It was also a nice change from red sauce spaghetti.
This dish isn't the most photogenic. I will add, there was a nice green veggie on the plate but that got eaten before I remembered to take a picture of the plate.
Stroganoff-Style Spaghetti 'n' Meatballs Recipe
Adapted from Taste of Home
1/2 pound uncooked spaghetti
1 package (12 ounces) frozen fully cooked Italian meatballs
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (I used less)
1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
1/4 cup 2% milk
1teaspoon beef base
1/8 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute the meatballs, onion and garlic in oil for 4-5 minutes or until meatballs are browned. Stir in the soup, milk, beef base and seasoning. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
Gradually stir in sour cream; heat through (do not boil). Drain spaghetti. Serve immediately with meatballs and sauce over spaghetti.
#2449 - Apricot Oatmeal Cookies
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(by Shirley McNevich)
1/2 cup softened butter
1/2 cup Crisco shortening
1 cup Domino's dark brown sugar (packed)
1 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 cups Quaker quick oats
2 cups flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 1/2 cups dried apricots (coarsely chopped)
2 cups chopped pecans OR 2 cups chopped walnuts
In a saucepan add coarsely chopped apricots--cover them with water, bring to a boil, cook for 5 minutes, then drain them and set aside. Put 2 cups of the oats in a blender--beat until finely ground. In a mixer add butter, Crisco, brown sugar and white sugar--beat. Add eggs--beat. Add vanilla, salt, baking soda and baking powder--beat. Add flour--beat. Remove bowl from mixer--add ground oats and remaining 1/2 cup of unground oats--stir. Add drained apricots and chopped nuts--stir until mixed. Drop by spoonfuls on to greased cookie sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool cookies for 2-3 minutes before removing from cookie sheets.
1/2 cup softened butter
1/2 cup Crisco shortening
1 cup Domino's dark brown sugar (packed)
1 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 cups Quaker quick oats
2 cups flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 1/2 cups dried apricots (coarsely chopped)
2 cups chopped pecans OR 2 cups chopped walnuts
In a saucepan add coarsely chopped apricots--cover them with water, bring to a boil, cook for 5 minutes, then drain them and set aside. Put 2 cups of the oats in a blender--beat until finely ground. In a mixer add butter, Crisco, brown sugar and white sugar--beat. Add eggs--beat. Add vanilla, salt, baking soda and baking powder--beat. Add flour--beat. Remove bowl from mixer--add ground oats and remaining 1/2 cup of unground oats--stir. Add drained apricots and chopped nuts--stir until mixed. Drop by spoonfuls on to greased cookie sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool cookies for 2-3 minutes before removing from cookie sheets.
#2450 - Microwave Corn on the Cob
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(by Shirley McNevich)
1 ear of corn on the cob (still in the husk)
Place 1 ear of corn in your microwave--microwave on high for 4-5 minutes. Be careful taking it out--it will be very hot. Use a sharp knife to cut off the bottom of the corn/husk and then the rest of the husk/silk will slide off very easily. Continue with as many ears of corn as you need, but DO NOT put more than one ear of corn in the microwave at a time.
1 ear of corn on the cob (still in the husk)
Place 1 ear of corn in your microwave--microwave on high for 4-5 minutes. Be careful taking it out--it will be very hot. Use a sharp knife to cut off the bottom of the corn/husk and then the rest of the husk/silk will slide off very easily. Continue with as many ears of corn as you need, but DO NOT put more than one ear of corn in the microwave at a time.
#2456 - Rice Krispie Drops
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(by Shirley McNevich)
1 bag Nestle's white chocolate chips
1 cup Jif peanut butter
1 cup mini marshmallows
2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Melt white chocolate chips according to bag directions. Add peanut butter, mini marshmallows and rice krispies to the melted white chocolate--stir well until mixed. Place cupcake liners into muffin tins. Place a heaping teaspoonful of the white chocolate mixture into each cupcake liner. Cool to room temperature. Refrigerate until hardened.
1 bag Nestle's white chocolate chips
1 cup Jif peanut butter
1 cup mini marshmallows
2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Melt white chocolate chips according to bag directions. Add peanut butter, mini marshmallows and rice krispies to the melted white chocolate--stir well until mixed. Place cupcake liners into muffin tins. Place a heaping teaspoonful of the white chocolate mixture into each cupcake liner. Cool to room temperature. Refrigerate until hardened.
#2457 - Peanut Butter Macadamia Cookies
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(by Shirley McNevich)
2 1/4 cups flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 1/2 cups Jif peanut butter
1 cup softened butter
1 cup white sugar
1 cup Domino's dark brown sugar (packed)
1 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs
1 - 12oz. bag Nestle's white chocolate chips
1 - 6.5oz. jar macadamia nuts (chopped)
In a mixer add butter, white sugar and brown sugar--beat. Add eggs--beat. Add baking powder, baking soda and salt--beat. Add vanilla--beat. Add peanut butter--beat. Slowly add flour--beat. Remove bowl from mixer--add white chocolate chips and chopped macadamia nuts--stir with a wooden spoon until mixed. Drop by teaspoonfuls on to greased cookie sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes. Cool cookies 5 minutes before removing them from cookie sheets.
2 1/4 cups flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 1/2 cups Jif peanut butter
1 cup softened butter
1 cup white sugar
1 cup Domino's dark brown sugar (packed)
1 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs
1 - 12oz. bag Nestle's white chocolate chips
1 - 6.5oz. jar macadamia nuts (chopped)
In a mixer add butter, white sugar and brown sugar--beat. Add eggs--beat. Add baking powder, baking soda and salt--beat. Add vanilla--beat. Add peanut butter--beat. Slowly add flour--beat. Remove bowl from mixer--add white chocolate chips and chopped macadamia nuts--stir with a wooden spoon until mixed. Drop by teaspoonfuls on to greased cookie sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes. Cool cookies 5 minutes before removing them from cookie sheets.
8 Temmuz 2012 Pazar
Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal Mix
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Here is another mix recipe for your collection:
Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal Mix
1 C. quick oats (grind in blender or food processor till finely ground)
1 C. quick oats (leave whole)
3/4-1C. brown sugar
1 Tbsp. maple flavoring
2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
Combine brown sugar, maple flavoring, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg in a medium bowl. Stir to thoroughly combine the sugar and extract (a mixer is really helpful for this). Add in oats and ground oats. Stir to combine. Store in airtight container.
To Serve:
Place 2/3 C. oatmeal mix in a bowl and add hot water to desired consistency.
For Apple-cinnamon oatmeal-substitute vanilla extract for the maple and add 1/2 C. dried apple pieces.
*Just like the packets you buy in the store, only you can control the ingredients.
*Package in individual baggies for quick, single serving sizes.
*Add more oats and ground oats to make a less sweet mix.
*Double, triple or quadruple the recipe and store in a large jar, scoop out how much you need.
***********************************************************************************************************************
Here is another mix recipe for your collection:Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal Mix
1 C. quick oats (grind in blender or food processor till finely ground)
1 C. quick oats (leave whole)
3/4-1C. brown sugar
1 Tbsp. maple flavoring
2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
Combine brown sugar, maple flavoring, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg in a medium bowl. Stir to thoroughly combine the sugar and extract (a mixer is really helpful for this). Add in oats and ground oats. Stir to combine. Store in airtight container.
To Serve:
Place 2/3 C. oatmeal mix in a bowl and add hot water to desired consistency.
For Apple-cinnamon oatmeal-substitute vanilla extract for the maple and add 1/2 C. dried apple pieces.
*Just like the packets you buy in the store, only you can control the ingredients.
*Package in individual baggies for quick, single serving sizes.
*Add more oats and ground oats to make a less sweet mix.
*Double, triple or quadruple the recipe and store in a large jar, scoop out how much you need.
***********************************************************************************************************************
Taking the "Crazy" out of Mornings
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The other day a friend shared how crazy and stressed out her mornings had been lately trying to get three kids up, fed, dressed and out the door on time. Tears, frustration, and unkind words are not a great way to start the day, not to mention the stress of misplaced items, missed buses or being late because of a chaotic morning.
It wasn't all that long ago I used to have to get 9 kids (my 3 kids plus our 6 foster children (all 6 of which were under 6!) up, dressed, delivered to 2 different schools, one or more to the agency for an appt. or visit--usually before 9 am. I know what crazy mornings are like!
Here are some ideas that helped take some of the craziness out of our mornings (these ideas aren't new or even all that original, but hopefully having them in one spot will inspire you):
Plan the night before (the more you can do the night before, the easier the morning will be, especially if you are not a morning person! If you are a morning person, a lot of this could be done before anyone else is up)
*Get the coffeemaker ready
*Lay out clothes (including socks, underwear, etc...)-including any uniforms, etc.. needed later in the day
*You could also have kids put on some of the next days clothes to wear to bed (if appropriate), Example, t-shirts, sweat pants, etc....
*Plan breakfast and prep as much as possible
-set the table
-if you are serving cereal place the cereal in bowls the night before and cover with a napkin or plastic bowl cover (older kids can grab their own milk and pour over cereal or help the younger kids)
-pour milk into cups the night before and place in fridge
-pre-cook bacon so all it needs is a quick reheat
-bake muffins and wrap in plastic wrap-set on table
-cut up fruit and place in bowl of 7up or Sprite, in fridge, ready to drain and serve
-portion out peanut butter and jelly in small cups or baggies to be squeezed on toast
-make your oatmeal in the crockpot so it is ready to go in the morning
*Pack lunch or set out lunch money the night before
*Make sure homework is checked, bags are packed and set by door
*Write reminders on sticky note and stick to door (IE...don't forget lunch from fridge, etc....) or have a specific place for memos. Our back door was metal so we just used magnets to stick stuff to the door that needed to go out with us.
*Place toothpaste on toothbrushes (this also lets you know who forgot to brush in the morning)
*Don't forget to set out things like shoes, boots, coats, hats, gloves, etc... Have a specific spot for everything by the door so no one forgets. We made bags for each kid that hung in our entry where they placed their stuff--if we were in a hurry we just grabbed the bags and then they could put on hats, gloves, etc.. in the car.
In the morning:
*First things first--pray before your feet even hit the floor for a smooth morning and a good attitude for everyone involved!
*Don't sweat the small stuff--unless you are having company the minute you walk through the door, ask yourself if it really matters if the beds don't get made till afternoon. (I know, I like the beds made in the morning too, but I learned that it was just one more source of stress in the morning)
*Set the mood for the morning--turn on some fun music (or sing a favorite song) to get everyone moving and greet everyone with a kind word and a hug. My kids still remember being woken up to a silly song called "Wake Up, You Sleepyhead!"
*Use a timer to help keep everyone moving. Challenge them to get dressed and to the table before the timer goes off (2-5 minutes depending on age). You can make it into a game or even have stickers or prizes (like choice of seat at table, etc...) for the first person to finish (make sure the winner didn't skip a step (like socks, etc...)). We tried to have each kids get to pick something as they finished (1 st kid--choose seat, 2nd kid--favorite cup, 3rd kids--napkin, etc.... so everyone felt like a winner. Sometimes the last kids simply got a big hug and a "good job".
*Plan to leave 10 minutes early, that way you have a little cushion (just don't tell the kids (or maybe even your husband))
*Assign older kids to help younger (if you can)--it helps them feel important and keeps them focused
*Remember that no matter how well planned you are, things can still go wrong (the baby blows out a diaper, the toddler toss his cookies on his shoes, etc...) just take a deep breath and keep calm--your reaction will help determine the reaction of those around you.
*No matter what--send your kids out the door with a hug and a kind word--even an apology if necessary!
Mornings can be busy and chaotic, hopefully you will find something here that will help you take just a little bit of the "crazy" out of your morning and help you to enjoy those brief moments that you have together!
It wasn't all that long ago I used to have to get 9 kids (my 3 kids plus our 6 foster children (all 6 of which were under 6!) up, dressed, delivered to 2 different schools, one or more to the agency for an appt. or visit--usually before 9 am. I know what crazy mornings are like!
Here are some ideas that helped take some of the craziness out of our mornings (these ideas aren't new or even all that original, but hopefully having them in one spot will inspire you):
Plan the night before (the more you can do the night before, the easier the morning will be, especially if you are not a morning person! If you are a morning person, a lot of this could be done before anyone else is up)
*Get the coffeemaker ready
*Lay out clothes (including socks, underwear, etc...)-including any uniforms, etc.. needed later in the day
*You could also have kids put on some of the next days clothes to wear to bed (if appropriate), Example, t-shirts, sweat pants, etc....
*Plan breakfast and prep as much as possible
-set the table
-if you are serving cereal place the cereal in bowls the night before and cover with a napkin or plastic bowl cover (older kids can grab their own milk and pour over cereal or help the younger kids)
-pour milk into cups the night before and place in fridge
-pre-cook bacon so all it needs is a quick reheat
-bake muffins and wrap in plastic wrap-set on table
-cut up fruit and place in bowl of 7up or Sprite, in fridge, ready to drain and serve
-portion out peanut butter and jelly in small cups or baggies to be squeezed on toast
-make your oatmeal in the crockpot so it is ready to go in the morning
*Pack lunch or set out lunch money the night before
*Make sure homework is checked, bags are packed and set by door
*Write reminders on sticky note and stick to door (IE...don't forget lunch from fridge, etc....) or have a specific place for memos. Our back door was metal so we just used magnets to stick stuff to the door that needed to go out with us.
*Place toothpaste on toothbrushes (this also lets you know who forgot to brush in the morning)
*Don't forget to set out things like shoes, boots, coats, hats, gloves, etc... Have a specific spot for everything by the door so no one forgets. We made bags for each kid that hung in our entry where they placed their stuff--if we were in a hurry we just grabbed the bags and then they could put on hats, gloves, etc.. in the car.
In the morning:
*First things first--pray before your feet even hit the floor for a smooth morning and a good attitude for everyone involved!
*Don't sweat the small stuff--unless you are having company the minute you walk through the door, ask yourself if it really matters if the beds don't get made till afternoon. (I know, I like the beds made in the morning too, but I learned that it was just one more source of stress in the morning)
*Set the mood for the morning--turn on some fun music (or sing a favorite song) to get everyone moving and greet everyone with a kind word and a hug. My kids still remember being woken up to a silly song called "Wake Up, You Sleepyhead!"
*Use a timer to help keep everyone moving. Challenge them to get dressed and to the table before the timer goes off (2-5 minutes depending on age). You can make it into a game or even have stickers or prizes (like choice of seat at table, etc...) for the first person to finish (make sure the winner didn't skip a step (like socks, etc...)). We tried to have each kids get to pick something as they finished (1 st kid--choose seat, 2nd kid--favorite cup, 3rd kids--napkin, etc.... so everyone felt like a winner. Sometimes the last kids simply got a big hug and a "good job".
*Plan to leave 10 minutes early, that way you have a little cushion (just don't tell the kids (or maybe even your husband))
*Assign older kids to help younger (if you can)--it helps them feel important and keeps them focused
*Remember that no matter how well planned you are, things can still go wrong (the baby blows out a diaper, the toddler toss his cookies on his shoes, etc...) just take a deep breath and keep calm--your reaction will help determine the reaction of those around you.
*No matter what--send your kids out the door with a hug and a kind word--even an apology if necessary!
Mornings can be busy and chaotic, hopefully you will find something here that will help you take just a little bit of the "crazy" out of your morning and help you to enjoy those brief moments that you have together!
Sea Salt Caramel Coffee
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It's National Coffee Day!!
To celebrate, here is my version of a Salted Caramel Mocha Coffee.
You will need:
-half & half (or your favorite creamer or milk)*
-chocolate sauce
-caramel sauce
-whipped cream
-sea salt
-brewed coffee
Place 2-4 Tbsp. of half & half (depending on how creamy you like it) into a cup. Add 1 tbsp. each of caramel sauce and chocolate sauce.
Heat in microwave for about 15 seconds, till warm. Use a whisk to blend together and make it a bit frothy.
Add coffee. Top with whipped cream. Drizzle whipped cream with a bit of chocolate sauce and caramel sauce (if desired).
Sprinkle the top of the coffee with a little bit of coarse ground sea salt. I rubbed the sea salt together in my hand over the cup. Just a pinch goes a long way, but adds a delightful sweet/salty flavor to the coffee!
*You can also make this with milk, up to a 1/4 C. just heat and froth the same way as above.
Enjoy!
To celebrate, here is my version of a Salted Caramel Mocha Coffee.
You will need:
-half & half (or your favorite creamer or milk)*
-chocolate sauce
-caramel sauce
-whipped cream
-sea salt
-brewed coffee
Place 2-4 Tbsp. of half & half (depending on how creamy you like it) into a cup. Add 1 tbsp. each of caramel sauce and chocolate sauce.
Heat in microwave for about 15 seconds, till warm. Use a whisk to blend together and make it a bit frothy.
Add coffee. Top with whipped cream. Drizzle whipped cream with a bit of chocolate sauce and caramel sauce (if desired).
Sprinkle the top of the coffee with a little bit of coarse ground sea salt. I rubbed the sea salt together in my hand over the cup. Just a pinch goes a long way, but adds a delightful sweet/salty flavor to the coffee!*You can also make this with milk, up to a 1/4 C. just heat and froth the same way as above.
Enjoy!
I'm Back with a Schnitzel Recipe
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I'm back---FINALLY! Sorry about the really long silence, just a lot going on and I was having a hard time keeping up.
We are in the middle of birthday month (four birthdays in our house in a month) and one of our traditions is the birthday person gets their favorite dinner. Our youngest just turned 15 and he asked for schnitzel and mashed potatoes. This is more of a how to than a recipe as there are no exact measurements.
For the schnitzel you will need:
Thinly sliced eye of round or similar meat (you can also use pork or veal)*
Flour
Eggs whisked with a little water
Italian style bread crumbs (we use homemade from the Shortcut Cooking Cookbook)
Lemon Wedges
Dredge the meat in flour to coat.
Dip meat in eggs and then in the bread crumbs, coating completely.
Fry in a pan with about a 1/2" of oil. Turn after 1-2 minutes.
To keep warm, place on a rack in a warm oven while you finish cooking all the meat.
Serve with lemon wedges.
*You can have the butcher thinly slice your meat, or to do it yourself: place roast in freezer for about one hour, then slice thinly with a knife or meat slicer. Freezing the meat for a bit makes it much easier to slice.
Tomorrow I will share the recipe for our dairy free roasted garlic mashed potatoes.
We are in the middle of birthday month (four birthdays in our house in a month) and one of our traditions is the birthday person gets their favorite dinner. Our youngest just turned 15 and he asked for schnitzel and mashed potatoes. This is more of a how to than a recipe as there are no exact measurements.
For the schnitzel you will need:
Thinly sliced eye of round or similar meat (you can also use pork or veal)*
Flour
Eggs whisked with a little water
Italian style bread crumbs (we use homemade from the Shortcut Cooking Cookbook)
Lemon Wedges
Dredge the meat in flour to coat.
Dip meat in eggs and then in the bread crumbs, coating completely.Fry in a pan with about a 1/2" of oil. Turn after 1-2 minutes. To keep warm, place on a rack in a warm oven while you finish cooking all the meat.Serve with lemon wedges.
*You can have the butcher thinly slice your meat, or to do it yourself: place roast in freezer for about one hour, then slice thinly with a knife or meat slicer. Freezing the meat for a bit makes it much easier to slice.
Tomorrow I will share the recipe for our dairy free roasted garlic mashed potatoes.
Homemade Jellied Cranberry Sauce
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The other day a friend mentioned that her neighbor delivered some fresh from the bog cranberries to her (how lucky is she to live by the cranberry bogs with such generous neighbors!). Anyway, my mind immediately went to one of my favorite fall treats--homemade cranberry sauce. Only three ingredients and so tasty!
Homemade Jellied Cranberry Sauce
~2 Cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
~3/4 Cup water
~1 Cup sugar
Wash cranberries. Place in a saucepan with the water. Boil the berries until the skins burst.
Puree the cranberries and water in a blender or food processor. Place puree back into pan and add sugar. Boil mixture for about 5 minutes (you want to reach the gel point--see below).
Pour mixture into bowl or mold. Cover with plastic wrap and chill until set.
*For a spicy cranberry sauce, add 1/2 tsp. cinnamon, a pinch of ground cloves and a pinch of nutmeg to the puree (or to taste). I love the spicy version!
~To test for gel point: Place a small amount of the sauce on a well chilled plate and stick in the freezer for a minute or two. The mixture should be set and not runny. You can run your finger through it and it will stay separated.
*If you want a softer sauce, boil for less time, for a firmer sauce boil an extra minute.
-We love this served with roasted chicken or turkey!
Homemade Jellied Cranberry Sauce
~2 Cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
~3/4 Cup water
~1 Cup sugar
Wash cranberries. Place in a saucepan with the water. Boil the berries until the skins burst.
Puree the cranberries and water in a blender or food processor. Place puree back into pan and add sugar. Boil mixture for about 5 minutes (you want to reach the gel point--see below).
Pour mixture into bowl or mold. Cover with plastic wrap and chill until set.
*For a spicy cranberry sauce, add 1/2 tsp. cinnamon, a pinch of ground cloves and a pinch of nutmeg to the puree (or to taste). I love the spicy version!
~To test for gel point: Place a small amount of the sauce on a well chilled plate and stick in the freezer for a minute or two. The mixture should be set and not runny. You can run your finger through it and it will stay separated.
*If you want a softer sauce, boil for less time, for a firmer sauce boil an extra minute.
-We love this served with roasted chicken or turkey!
7 Temmuz 2012 Cumartesi
Healthy Breakfast Cookies
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These breakfast cookies are extremely easy, quick, and super heathy. No sugar in these "cookies" unless you count the dates. They are moist and filling AND they are very adaptable, so you could substitute or add in your favorite dried fruit for the dates. Cookies for breakfast? Yes please!
Healthy Breakfast Cookies
From Pinterest
Printable Version
Ingredients
1.5 cups oats
2 or 3 super ripe bananas
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
Handful of chopped dates (or dried cranberries, apricots, or raisins)
A dash of cinnamon (to taste)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. Spray a cookie sheet with cooking spray. Drop by large spoonfuls onto cookie sheet. Bake for 35 minutes and remove to wire rack. Allow to cool and enjoy!
These breakfast cookies are extremely easy, quick, and super heathy. No sugar in these "cookies" unless you count the dates. They are moist and filling AND they are very adaptable, so you could substitute or add in your favorite dried fruit for the dates. Cookies for breakfast? Yes please!
Healthy Breakfast Cookies
From Pinterest
Printable Version
Ingredients
1.5 cups oats
2 or 3 super ripe bananas
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
Handful of chopped dates (or dried cranberries, apricots, or raisins)
A dash of cinnamon (to taste)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. Spray a cookie sheet with cooking spray. Drop by large spoonfuls onto cookie sheet. Bake for 35 minutes and remove to wire rack. Allow to cool and enjoy!
A Fabulous Giveaway!!!
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Oh friends, do I have a special treat for you! I was contacted by the good people at Slimkicker, a healthy living/fitness app, and asked if I wanted to host a giveaway where one lucky reader will get this awesome digital food scale!
How cool is that scale?? Of course I said yes because not only do I love helping my readers win cool, free stuff but I know how important it is to make fitness and health goals.
Slimkicker can help inspire to reach your goals by providing you with motivational games, rewards, challenges, and online tools for counting calories and keeping track of your fitness. Check out their site here!
To enter the giveaway all you have to do is leave a comment describing your idea of a fun, creative fitness or diet challenge. It only has to be one or two sentences. I'll start by sharing my diet challenge: after baby is born I am going to severely limit my sugar intake! I went a little crazy with the desserts and sweets during this pregnancy but to help lose the baby weight and make sure my little bundle of joy receives the correct nutrition, my goal is to only splurge on desserts a few times a week (instead of every day or more than once a day, woops)! :)
So what is your fitness or diet idea? Please share! The people at Slimkicker will pick a winner in a week and then the scale will be all yours! This giveaway is limited to US residents only please!
Thank you to my new friends at Slimkicker for allowing me to host this fabulous giveaway and remind me how important it is to set goals for yourself! Let the commenting begin...!
How cool is that scale?? Of course I said yes because not only do I love helping my readers win cool, free stuff but I know how important it is to make fitness and health goals.
Slimkicker can help inspire to reach your goals by providing you with motivational games, rewards, challenges, and online tools for counting calories and keeping track of your fitness. Check out their site here!
To enter the giveaway all you have to do is leave a comment describing your idea of a fun, creative fitness or diet challenge. It only has to be one or two sentences. I'll start by sharing my diet challenge: after baby is born I am going to severely limit my sugar intake! I went a little crazy with the desserts and sweets during this pregnancy but to help lose the baby weight and make sure my little bundle of joy receives the correct nutrition, my goal is to only splurge on desserts a few times a week (instead of every day or more than once a day, woops)! :)
So what is your fitness or diet idea? Please share! The people at Slimkicker will pick a winner in a week and then the scale will be all yours! This giveaway is limited to US residents only please!
Thank you to my new friends at Slimkicker for allowing me to host this fabulous giveaway and remind me how important it is to set goals for yourself! Let the commenting begin...!
Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars with Sea Salt
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In the past month I've made these delicious cookie bars three times. Yes - three times! They are that freaking good! They are not your average chocolate chip bars because they are sprinkled with sea salt before they are baked. This takes them to a whole new salty/sweet level. I made them for a potluck at hubby's work and people raved about them, so I made them again for a party and then one more time for hubby's coworkers. They are best warm and make a nice big batch so make them when you want to share - and believe me they will go fast!
Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars with Sea Salt
From Two Peas & Their Pod
Printable Version
Ingredients
2 1/8 cups all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
12 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled to room temperature (can be scaled back if you would like)
1 cup light brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups chocolate chip
Sea salt for sprinkling
Directions
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Spray a 9X13 inch baking pan. In a medium bowl whisk together flour, salt, and baking soda. In the bowl of a stand mixer mix together the melted butter and sugars until combined. Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract and mix until smooth. Slowly add the dry ingredients at low speed until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips.
Pour the dough into the prepared pan and smooth so it evens out. Sprinkle the bars very lightly with sea salt. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top of the bars are light brown and start to pull away from the pan. Allow bars to cook on a wire rack before cutting into squares and serving.
In the past month I've made these delicious cookie bars three times. Yes - three times! They are that freaking good! They are not your average chocolate chip bars because they are sprinkled with sea salt before they are baked. This takes them to a whole new salty/sweet level. I made them for a potluck at hubby's work and people raved about them, so I made them again for a party and then one more time for hubby's coworkers. They are best warm and make a nice big batch so make them when you want to share - and believe me they will go fast!
Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars with Sea Salt
From Two Peas & Their Pod
Printable Version
Ingredients
2 1/8 cups all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
12 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled to room temperature (can be scaled back if you would like)
1 cup light brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups chocolate chip
Sea salt for sprinkling
Directions
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Spray a 9X13 inch baking pan. In a medium bowl whisk together flour, salt, and baking soda. In the bowl of a stand mixer mix together the melted butter and sugars until combined. Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract and mix until smooth. Slowly add the dry ingredients at low speed until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips.
Pour the dough into the prepared pan and smooth so it evens out. Sprinkle the bars very lightly with sea salt. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top of the bars are light brown and start to pull away from the pan. Allow bars to cook on a wire rack before cutting into squares and serving.
Skinny Red Lobster Cheddar Biscuits
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I think most people would agree that the biscuits at Red Lobster are one of the best reasons for eating there. They are so ridiculously buttery and fluffy but not so figure friendly. I saw these skinny versions of the biscuits and gave them a try when we had our friends over for dinner. They are pretty darn close to the original but you can enjoy them without the guilt - only 107 calories and 3 grams of fat per biscuit. They are a cinch to make and so yummy I am thinking of making them again tonight for my hubby's Father's Day dinner. One note -- make sure to serve them right out of the oven!
Skinny Red Lobster Cheddar BiscuitsFrom WW RecipesPrintable VersionMakes 12 BiscuitsIngredients2 cups reduced fat Bisquick3/4 cup low fat buttermilk 1 cup shredded low fat cheddar cheese2 tablespoons light butter or margarine 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (I used real minced garlic)1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
DirectionsPreheat the oven to 400 degrees. Combine the bisquick, milk, and cheddar cheese in a medium bowl. Mix by hand until well combined.
Divide the dough into 12 equal portions (about 3 tablespoons each) and spoon onto a lightly greased or nonstick cookie sheet. Flatten each biscuit a bit with your fingers. 
Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the tops begin to brown. In a small bowl combine the butter with the garlic powder or minced garlic and heat in the microwave for 30 seconds. Brush garlic butter on the top of each biscuit immediately after removing from the oven. Sprinkle a dash of parsley over to top of each biscuit and serve immediately. 
I think most people would agree that the biscuits at Red Lobster are one of the best reasons for eating there. They are so ridiculously buttery and fluffy but not so figure friendly. I saw these skinny versions of the biscuits and gave them a try when we had our friends over for dinner. They are pretty darn close to the original but you can enjoy them without the guilt - only 107 calories and 3 grams of fat per biscuit. They are a cinch to make and so yummy I am thinking of making them again tonight for my hubby's Father's Day dinner. One note -- make sure to serve them right out of the oven! Skinny Red Lobster Cheddar BiscuitsFrom WW RecipesPrintable VersionMakes 12 BiscuitsIngredients2 cups reduced fat Bisquick3/4 cup low fat buttermilk 1 cup shredded low fat cheddar cheese2 tablespoons light butter or margarine 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (I used real minced garlic)1/4 teaspoon dried parsleyDirectionsPreheat the oven to 400 degrees. Combine the bisquick, milk, and cheddar cheese in a medium bowl. Mix by hand until well combined.
Divide the dough into 12 equal portions (about 3 tablespoons each) and spoon onto a lightly greased or nonstick cookie sheet. Flatten each biscuit a bit with your fingers. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the tops begin to brown. In a small bowl combine the butter with the garlic powder or minced garlic and heat in the microwave for 30 seconds. Brush garlic butter on the top of each biscuit immediately after removing from the oven. Sprinkle a dash of parsley over to top of each biscuit and serve immediately.
Slimkicker Digital Scale Giveaway Winner!
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Thank you to everyone who entered the latest giveaway! My friends at Slimkicker have announced the winner of the digital kitchen scale giveaway!
The lucky one is MJ who suggested the following fitness challenge:
MJJune 10, 2012 11:57 PMLet's see..... A good giveaway idea would be to do 1 spontaneous physical activity everyday, whether it's getting off 1 station early to work, or taking a walk after lunch, or just playing with the kids.
Congratulations MJ! Please respond with your email address so we can can contact you about getting you the scale!
The lucky one is MJ who suggested the following fitness challenge:
MJJune 10, 2012 11:57 PMLet's see..... A good giveaway idea would be to do 1 spontaneous physical activity everyday, whether it's getting off 1 station early to work, or taking a walk after lunch, or just playing with the kids.
Congratulations MJ! Please respond with your email address so we can can contact you about getting you the scale!
5 Temmuz 2012 Perşembe
#2451 - Chocolate Pudding Pie
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(by Shirley McNevich)
1 ready-made graham cracker crust (regular OR chocolate)
1 - 8oz. Cool Whip (thawed)
1 cup cold milk
1 - 3oz. box Jell-O INSTANT chocolate pudding mix
1 cup (or more) cherry pie filling
Spread 1 cup of the Cool Whip on the bottom of the crust. In a bowl add milk and chocolate pudding mix--beat with a whisk until thickened. Add 1 1/2 cups of the Cool Whip to the chocolate pudding--stir with a whisk until mixed. Spread the chocolate pudding mixture over the Cool Whip in the crust. Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the chocolate pudding mixture. Spread the cherry pie filling over the top. Refrigerate until very cold.
1 ready-made graham cracker crust (regular OR chocolate)
1 - 8oz. Cool Whip (thawed)
1 cup cold milk
1 - 3oz. box Jell-O INSTANT chocolate pudding mix
1 cup (or more) cherry pie filling
Spread 1 cup of the Cool Whip on the bottom of the crust. In a bowl add milk and chocolate pudding mix--beat with a whisk until thickened. Add 1 1/2 cups of the Cool Whip to the chocolate pudding--stir with a whisk until mixed. Spread the chocolate pudding mixture over the Cool Whip in the crust. Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the chocolate pudding mixture. Spread the cherry pie filling over the top. Refrigerate until very cold.
#2452 - Pasta Bean Soup
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(by Shirley McNevich)
8oz. Italian sausage (cut into coin shaped pieces, then each piece quartered)
1 onion (chopped)
1 TBSP canola oil
1 - 19oz. can cannellini beans (do NOT drain)
1 - 14oz. can diced Italian tomatoes
1/4 cup chopped parsley
3/4 cup dry small pasta shells
salt and pepper to taste
2 cups water
Parmesan cheese
In a skillet add canola oil, chopped onions, and sausage pieces--cook/stir over medium heat until sausage is browned and onions are caramelized. Add diced tomatoes and water--stir and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add pasta shells and chopped parsley--cook/stir until pasta is tender. Add cannellini beans--cook/stir until beans are hot. Add salt and pepper to your taste--stir. Add Parmesan cheese to your taste--stir.
8oz. Italian sausage (cut into coin shaped pieces, then each piece quartered)
1 onion (chopped)
1 TBSP canola oil
1 - 19oz. can cannellini beans (do NOT drain)
1 - 14oz. can diced Italian tomatoes
1/4 cup chopped parsley
3/4 cup dry small pasta shells
salt and pepper to taste
2 cups water
Parmesan cheese
In a skillet add canola oil, chopped onions, and sausage pieces--cook/stir over medium heat until sausage is browned and onions are caramelized. Add diced tomatoes and water--stir and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add pasta shells and chopped parsley--cook/stir until pasta is tender. Add cannellini beans--cook/stir until beans are hot. Add salt and pepper to your taste--stir. Add Parmesan cheese to your taste--stir.
Baked Cranberry Oatmeal
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This is a warm crumbly oatmeal that's good to serve on a cold morning. In South Florida that's anything below 60F!
Flavored with brown sugar, cinnamon and fresh cranberries.
Combine the dry ingredients.
Melt the butter in the baking dish to grease the pan,then pour into the wet ingredients.
Whisk in the vanilla. Combine with the dry ingredients and stir in the cranberries.
I made half the recipe and used an 8" square pan.
Bake for 30-40 minutes. Cut unto squares and serve.
Top with warm cream if desired.
If you have leftovers, you can reheat them in themicrowave during the week.
Baked Cranberry Oatmeal9X13 pan has 6-8 servings3 C oatmeal1 C brown sugar2 t cinnamon2 t baking powderpinch saltcombine in a large bowlin another bowl combine:2 eggs1 C milk1 stick butter, melted2 t vanillawhisk together and combine with thedry ingredients. Stir in1 C fresh cranberriesPour into the buttered 9X13 panand bake @350 for 30-40 minutesCut into large squares and serve withwarm cream if desired.Enjoy!
Flavored with brown sugar, cinnamon and fresh cranberries. Combine the dry ingredients. Melt the butter in the baking dish to grease the pan,then pour into the wet ingredients. Whisk in the vanilla. Combine with the dry ingredients and stir in the cranberries. I made half the recipe and used an 8" square pan. Bake for 30-40 minutes. Cut unto squares and serve. Top with warm cream if desired.If you have leftovers, you can reheat them in themicrowave during the week.Baked Cranberry Oatmeal9X13 pan has 6-8 servings3 C oatmeal1 C brown sugar2 t cinnamon2 t baking powderpinch saltcombine in a large bowlin another bowl combine:2 eggs1 C milk1 stick butter, melted2 t vanillawhisk together and combine with thedry ingredients. Stir in1 C fresh cranberriesPour into the buttered 9X13 panand bake @350 for 30-40 minutesCut into large squares and serve withwarm cream if desired.Enjoy!
Walkabout Soup
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This is a creamy onion soup that's like the
Walkabout soup served at the Outback.
Perfect soup for a winter day.
It's very easy to prepare. You'll need:beef bouillon cubes, onions, flour, salt, pepper, cream, and shredded cheese. 
It's been in my recipe basket for over 15 years.
If you can boil water
and slice an onion, you can make this soup.
Bring 8 cups of water and 8 bouillon cubes to a boil.
Add the onions salt and pepper.
Simmer covered for 1 hour.
Then gradually whisk in the flour.
The lumps will dissolve with an additional
30 minutes of cooking.
Whisk until smooth.
Add the cream.
Whisk to blend
Stir in the cheese.
Let simmer another 5-10 minutes.
Serve!
My grandchildren loved this soup.
Just remember to call itWalkabout Soup and don't mention the onions.
Walkabout Soup8 C water8 beef bouillon cubes3 onions, cut in half and thinly sliced1 t salt1 t pepper3/4 C flour1 C heavy cream1 C shredded cheddar cheeseBring the water and bouillon cubes to a boil.
Stir until dissolved. Add onions, salt and pepper. Cover and simmer for 1 hour. While stirring, slowly whisk in the flour.
Simmer covered for another 30 minutes,
whisking occasionally. Lumps will dissolve after
additional cooking Stir in the cream then add
the cheese. Simmer another 5-10 minutes. Serve with a little cheese sprinkled on top, if desired.8 servings/200caloriesEnjoy!
Links: Between Naps On The Porch,
Designs By Gollum
Walkabout soup served at the Outback.Perfect soup for a winter day.
It's very easy to prepare. You'll need:beef bouillon cubes, onions, flour, salt, pepper, cream, and shredded cheese. It's been in my recipe basket for over 15 years. If you can boil waterand slice an onion, you can make this soup.Bring 8 cups of water and 8 bouillon cubes to a boil. Add the onions salt and pepper.Simmer covered for 1 hour.
Then gradually whisk in the flour.The lumps will dissolve with an additional30 minutes of cooking.
Whisk until smooth.Add the cream. Whisk to blend Stir in the cheese.Let simmer another 5-10 minutes.Serve!My grandchildren loved this soup.Just remember to call itWalkabout Soup and don't mention the onions.
Walkabout Soup8 C water8 beef bouillon cubes3 onions, cut in half and thinly sliced1 t salt1 t pepper3/4 C flour1 C heavy cream1 C shredded cheddar cheeseBring the water and bouillon cubes to a boil.
Stir until dissolved. Add onions, salt and pepper. Cover and simmer for 1 hour. While stirring, slowly whisk in the flour.
Simmer covered for another 30 minutes,
whisking occasionally. Lumps will dissolve after
additional cooking Stir in the cream then add
the cheese. Simmer another 5-10 minutes. Serve with a little cheese sprinkled on top, if desired.8 servings/200caloriesEnjoy!
Links: Between Naps On The Porch,
Designs By Gollum
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