Polly wants a cracker, but I want chocolate cake!

Peanut Butter Fudge

2011-12-25T20:14:00.000-08:00

Thi may be THE easiest recipe ever!

Ingredients
2 cups white sugar
1/2 cup milk
1 (7 ounce) jar marshmallow creme
1 1/3 cups peanut butter

Directions
1. Boil milk and sugar in a medium saucepan for three minutes over medium-high heat. Immediately stir in the marshmallow creme and peanut butter. Pour and spread into a 9x9 inch glass baking dish. Cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.

Georgetown Cupcake's Maple Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

2011-12-25T19:04:00.000-08:00

FOR THE CUPCAKES:
2 1/2 cups All purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon Baking powder
1/4 teaspoon Salt
8 tablespoon Unsalted butter at room temperature
1 3/4 cup Sugar
2 Eggs
2 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Seeds from 1 vanilla bean
1 1/4 cup Whole milk at room temperature
1/2 cup Pure maple syrup
1/2 cup Chocolate Chips
.
FOR THE FROSTING:
2 cup Semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup Heavy Cream

instructions FOR THE CUPCAKES: Preheat the oven to 350F. Line a cupcake pan with twelve paper baking cups, or grease the pan with butter if not using baking cups.
ingredients 2 1/2 cups All purpose flour1/2 teaspoon Baking powder1/4 teaspoon Salt
instructions Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt on a piece of parchment paper or wax paper and set aside.
ingredients 8 tablespoon Unsalted butter at room temperature1 3/4 cup Sugar
instructions Place the unsalted butter in the bowl of a stand mixer or in a bowl with a handheld electric mixer. Add the sugar; beat on medium speed until well incorporated.
instructions Add the eggs one at a time, mixing slowly after each addition.
Combine the vanilla extract, vanilla bean seeds and milk in a large liquid measuring cup.
Reduce the speed to low. Add one thirds of the flour mixture to the butter mixture, then gradually add on third of the milk mixture, beating until well incorporated. Add another third of the flour mixture, followed by one third of the milk mixture. Stop to scrape down the bowl as needed. Add the remaining flour mixture, followed by the remaining milk mixture, and mix slowly until just combined.
Add in the maple syrup and mix slowly until just combined.
instructions Gently fold in the chocolate chips, just until incorporated
Scoop batter into baking cups so that they are two-thirds full and bake for 18 to 20 minites )start checking after 15 minutes) or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Transfer the pan to a wire rack to cool completely.
ingredients 2 cup Semisweet chocolate chips1 cup Heavy Cream instructions FOR THE FROSTING: Fill a medium saucepan with 1 to 2 inches water and place over medium-low heat. Place the chocolate ships and heavy cream in a medium glass bowl over the saucepan and melt the chocolate chips. Stir occasionally until the chips are completely melted. Remove the bowl of melted chocolate from the saucepan

Veggie stuffing from Daphne Oz

2011-12-25T19:03:00.000-08:00

1/2 Loaf Multigrain Bread (torn into bite-sized pieces)
3/4 cup Walnuts (coarsely chopped)
1 Shallot (finely chopped)
1 Celery Stalk (thinly chopped)
1/2 pound Shitake Mushrooms (chopped and stems removed)
1 Bunch Kale (cut into ribbons and stems removed)
1 Granny Smith Apple (cored and diced)
1/3 cup Parsley Leaves (minced)
1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Leaves (minced)
1 tablespoon Fresh Sage Leaves (minced)
1 Clove Garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Salt and Pepper
Vegetable Broth (approximately 2 cups)

Browned butter cookies with CARAMEL frosting

2011-10-19T09:35:00.000-07:00

Cookies
1
cup butter (do not use margarine)
2
cups packed brown sugar
1/2
cup milk
2
eggs
3 1/2
cups Gold Medal® all-purpose flour
1
teaspoon baking soda
1/4
teaspoon salt
Caramel Frosting
1/2
cup butter or margarine
1
cup packed brown sugar
1/4
cup milk
2
cups powdered sugar

Heat oven to 400°F. In 2-quart heavy saucepan, melt 1 cup butter over medium heat. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until butter is light brown. Cool at least 10 minutes.

In large bowl, mix browned butter, 2 cups brown sugar, 1/2 cup milk and the eggs with spoon. Stir in flour, baking soda and salt. Drop dough by rounded tablespoonfuls about 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake cookies 9 to 11 minutes or until almost no indentation remains when touched in center. Cool 1 to 2 minutes; remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely, about 30 minutes

FROSTING:
Meanwhile, in 2-quart saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter over medium heat. Stir in 1 cup brown sugar. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Stir in 1/4 cup milk. Heat to boiling; remove from heat. Cool to lukewarm, about 30 minutes. Gradually stir in powdered sugar. Spread Caramel Frosting on cookies

Sounds like a perfect Fall dessert!! can't wait to try this!

Tomato, Pesto, Feta grilled sandwich

2011-10-19T09:27:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure this one needs explanation. If you can make a grilled cheese sandwich, it is very similar. Spread margarine on 2 pcs of whole wheat bread. Place one margarine- side down, layer fresh tomato slices, feta, black olives, and spread pesto over the top. Cover with other slice of bread, margarine side up. Cook over medium heat until both sides are crisp. Serve with fresh tomato soup for a very healthy, delish meal.

My son is home from Basic/AIT!!!!!

2011-10-19T07:19:00.000-07:00

Since my oldest son has returned from Ft.Leonard wood, he has been on a health kick (yeah!)
this gives me a litle leverage with the other kids about eating healthier foods in place of take out or fattening, sugary foods.
A few of us went to a fruit farm and bought a bushel of mixed apples home. We have been enjoying homemade applesauce and apple crisp (healthy version) for dessert or with dinner. It was a great experience and even better for encouraging us to eat our "apple a day."
I hope you all take the time to eat the harvest of Autumn..apples, pumpkins, nuts, seeds, squash...yummy!

Polly wants a cracker, but I want chocolate cake!: Autumn is here!

2011-10-05T08:49:00.000-07:00

Polly wants a cracker, but I want chocolate cake!: Autumn is here!: I have spent the morning reading about how to get organized and save money...so many good ideas! Of course, extreme couponing is all over th...

Autumn is here!

2011-10-05T08:37:00.000-07:00

I have spent the morning reading about how to get organized and save money...so many good ideas!
Of course, extreme couponing is all over the internet and tv, but it isn't realistic for most of us...I know Kroger would not allow me to walk out of the store with $37 of their money, and 128 bottles of aspirin! I am making myself stick to a budget this week for groceries and use the coupons from the Sunday paper and the downloadable coupons from Kroger.
To organize the coupons, I am going to make a file folder with an old daily planner. I guess recycling is saving money, too!
i need to pay off a credit card i used a little too often this year, (visit to watch basic training graduation, high school graduation, senior pics, military ring, birthdays,sports and fees, good bye parties, vacation to Florida, etc...) That bill just never seems to go away and guess what- Christmas is only 11 weeks away!!! I am determined to pay off one of the two I have been using to survive this year! I am realistic that the second won't get paid off until after the beginning of the year.
If you have never had to pay off a couple credit cards or large bills, the best idea I have heard of so far, seems pretty simple.
pay the smallest amount you can on the bills with the lowest percentage rate. Pay the largest amount you can on the bill with the highest interest rate. when THAT bill is paid off, use the money you used to pay on that bill towards the next bill or card.
I have ongoing medical expenses, so sometimes this works, and other times...I do what I can. Praying that the next president will be able to turn the economy around and put people back to work. we have been very fortunate this year and I hope it pays off in the end. until then, i will keep clipping those coupons!

Swiss Apfelkuchen Tart

2011-10-05T07:16:00.000-07:00

Dough:
	2 cupsall-purpose flour
	1/3 cupsugar
	1 lemon
	5 ozunsalted butter; (10 Tbls.)
	1 egg
	1 egg yolk
	1/8 tsp.salt
	3/4 Tblswhite vinegar; mixed with 3/4 Tbls. cold water Filling: 8-10 tart apples 1 c golden raisins 1/2 c. chopped nuts 1/2 c. sugar 2 tsp. cinnamon 6 TBS Real butter, melted 1 egg, beaten Make dough like you would pie crust, refrigerate 30 minutes or longer. Peel and core apples, slice in half and then into 1/8 inch thick slices and place in a mixing bowl. Roll dough out on a floured board or counter with a floured rolling pin until it is about 19 inches long and 12 inches wide. Carefully fold it over itself and then unfold onto an 11 inch by 17 inch baking sheet... Layer half of the apple slices onto the dough, leaving a 2 inch margin all the way around. Sprinkle 2/3 of the nuts and 1/2 the raisins. Mix the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl and sprinkle half over the apples, nuts and raisins. Make another layer of apples, nuts and raisins and cover with the rest of the cinnamon sugar. Fold the sides of the pastry over, starting with the short sides. Pour the melted butter over the topping and brush the pastry frame with the slightly beaten egg. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Allow to cool and then slice into 12 pcs. Adapted by http://laurenhairston.blogspot.com/2011/01/contest-apfelkuchen.html

chicken cordon bleu casserole

2011-10-05T07:07:00.000-07:00

2 lbs of cubed chicken
1 egg with 2 Tbs milk, beaten together
Bread crumbs
8 oz of swiss or mozzarella cheese
1 package finely chopped ham (found near bologna at grocery)
1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 C milk, mixed

Dip chunks of chicken in egg and milk mixture, and coat with bread crumbs. In skillet, brown until golden. Place chicken in 13x9 baking dish, add in cheese and ham. Pour soup mixture over other ingredients. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes.

Hobo packs on the grill

2011-10-05T07:01:00.000-07:00

Make sheets of foil large enough to wrap Hobo packs, usually 8 x 8,

place a hamburger patty on each sheet, top with a slice of onion, 2 TBS. of veg-All, and topped with a slice of cheese.

wrap foil so that juices cannot escape, I roll the edges together, instead of crimping, but you can do whatever works for you.

Grill or bake until hamburgers are cooked to your taste. carefully unwrap each pack, can be served in packs or placed on plates with a side of beans or brown rice.

Crockpot sweet and sour chicken

2011-10-05T06:51:00.000-07:00

2-4 chicken breast cut into pieces
1-3 chopped bell peppers (red, green, yellow, or orange)
1 small onion, chopped
1 can of chunk pineapple, juice included
1/2 c. brown sugar
red pepper flakes to taste

cook in crock pot on low for 8-10 hours

serve over brown rice

Crockpot Porcupine Meatballs

2011-10-05T06:43:00.000-07:00

1/2 cGreen pepper; finely chopped
1 Egg
1/4 tsp pepper, 1 tsp salt
1 1/2 lb. ground meat
1/2 C RAW rice
Mix ingredients and form into meatballs, add to crock pot and cover with 1 can Tomato soup and 1 small can of chopped tomatoes, cook 8 hours on low

Easy Crockpot Cabbage and kielbasa

2011-10-05T06:41:00.000-07:00

	1 lbkielbasa/turkey sausage; sliced
	1 headcabbage; chopped
	1 cupOnions; chopped
	1 Tbsp.Butter
	28 oztomatoes; undrained
	4 cupsChicken broth Mix into crockpot and cook on high 4-6 hours or low 8-10

Pumpkin Breakfast Muffins

2011-10-03T11:21:00.000-07:00

Too easy! I was given this recipe by my local cashier at the grocer's when I gave her my pumkin pie custard recipe....

1 small can of pumpkin
1 Spice cake mix
...........mix together and pour into muffin pans lined with paper.....bake according to cake directions for cupcakes.....yep, really THAT easy!

Pumkin Pie Custard

2011-10-03T11:16:00.001-07:00

sooo easy and good for you, too! An alternative to regular pumpkin pie, this is short on carbs and fat, high on taste.

1 large can of pumpkin Pie mix (for lower sugar recipe, use pure pumpkin and add sugar substitute and seasoning)
2 eggs
1 can evaporated milk
additional pumpkin pie seasoning if you prefer (I do!)
1/2 c. Bisquick or Jiffy baking mix
Mix very, very well and bake in a greased casserole pan at 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until knife inserted into center comes out clean.

Serve alone or with whipping cream, cool whip, or vanilla/cinnamon ice cream.

At-home Calzones

2011-10-03T11:11:00.000-07:00

whole wheat pizza crust dough
Pizza sauce
mozzarella
fresh spinach
mushrooms
onions
bell peppers
thinly sliced zucchini
ground sausage or pepperoni

roll dough out and cut into squares (4), in the center of each dough square, add sauce, and choice of toppings, pinch closed and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. bake according to Pizza dough directions. serve with additional sauce on side and side salad.

cornflake chicken -one of Teage's faves

2011-10-03T10:57:00.001-07:00

dredge chicken breasts that have been patted dry with a paper towel through egg wash (1 egg, 2 T milk, beaten), then through crushed corn flakes.
Salt and pepper to taste, place on baking sheet. Spray with non-stick cooking spray and bake 20-30 minutes at 375 degrees or until no longer pink in the middle.

Good alternative to fried chicken, healthier and faster....and amazingly delicious!!! Your family will LOVE this!

Impossibly easy crustless pumpkin pie

2011-09-29T11:25:00.001-07:00

1 Can of Pure pumpkin, 1 can of evaporated milk,1 c brown sugar,1 c white sugar, 2 eggs, 3/4 C Bisquick baking mix, pumpkin pie spice to seasoning, mix well. Grease 9 x 12 casserole dish,bake in 425 degree oven for40 minutes. Let cool,top with whipping cream.

My step-mom used to make this and substitute the sugars with saccharin or truvia because she was a diabetic. the crust-less version is faster and easier to make and feeds more people. My youngest son loves it more than "regular" pie and requests this as soon as the cool air rolls in. Definitely a family favorite!

unstuffed peppers from Kraft!

2011-09-27T09:29:00.003-07:00

What You Need

1 lb. lean ground beef

2 green peppers, coarsely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups cooked long-grain white rice

1 jar (24 oz.) spaghetti sauce

1-1/2 cups KRAFT Shredded Italian* Five Cheese with a TOUCH OF PHILADELPHIA, divided

Make It

HEAT oven to 350ºF.

BROWN meat with peppers and garlic in large skillet; drain. Stir in rice, spaghetti sauce and 3/4 cup cheese.

SPOON into 2-qt. casserole; top with remaining cheese.

BAKE 25 min. or until heated through.

Sounds really good, I think that's what is going on the table tonight!!

ugh!!! The first bite of the flu at our house!

2011-09-26T10:50:00.000-07:00

My youngest son stayed home sick from school on Friday...and then stayed in bed all weekend! We made lots of homemade soup that tasted old fashioned, but took less than 30 minutes to make. I'm not sure you can count this as 'healthy', but it always makes us feel better on cold days and when fighting off the nasty colds we tend to get when the weather changes. It almost made up for missing 2 football games and a shopping trip...almost!

1 Can of boneless chicken or turkey, in broth added to a saucepan with 3 C of water. Slice 2 carrots and 2 stalks of celery into the water and bring to a boil. Turn the heat down and add 1-2 C of rice and cook according to the type of rice you are making. Here's the kicker...add 1 stick of butter and salt and pepper to the pan before serving. Great with a peanut butter sandwich or a crusty bread.

Kraft chicken and broccoli

2011-09-16T19:01:00.000-07:00

I took this from the Kraft newsletter...

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 1-1/4 lb.), cut into strips

1/2 lb. (8 oz.) VELVEETA®, cut up

1 can (10-3/4 oz.) condensed cream of mushroom soup

1/4 cup milk

1 bag (16 oz.) frozen chopped broccoli, thawed

3 cups hot cooked rice

Make It

SPRAY skillet with cooking spray. Add chicken; cook and stir on medium-high heat 4 to 5 minutes or until cooked through.

ADD prepared cheese product, soup, milk and broccoli. Reduce heat to low. Cook until prepared cheese product is melted, stirring occasionally.

SPOON chicken mixture over rice.

Kraft Kitchens Tips

Shortcut

Substitute 2 pkg. (6 oz. each) OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Grilled Chicken Breast Strips for fresh chicken. Cook and stir chicken breast strips, prepared cheese product, soup, milk and broccoli until heated through. Serve over rice.

K:1100 v0:57598

Greek omelette- 2o minutes or less!

2011-09-16T08:46:00.000-07:00

Squeeze thawed, frozen spinach to remove any excess water. Blend 4 eggs with a fork in a medium bowl. Add 1/4 c mozzarella, 2 chopped scallions, and the spinach; mix gently with a rubber spatula.

Set a rack about 4 inches from the heat source; preheat the broiler.

Heat oil in a 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and tilt to distribute evenly. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook until the bottom is light golden, lifting the edges to allow uncooked egg to flow underneath, 3 to 4 minutes. Place the pan under the broiler and cook until the top is set, 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 minutes. Slide the omelet onto a platter and cut into wedges.

whole wheat quesadillas

2011-09-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

coat a large baking stone with non stick cooking spray and turn heat to 400 degrees.

Rinse a large can of chicken to remove preservatives. In a large bowl, combine chicken, salt, pepper, taco seasoning (from a packet), and 1/2 small jar of salsa.

Place chicken mixture on tortilla (already on stone), and sprinkle with your choice of cheese. Press an additional tortilla on top and bake for 5-6 minutes until crisp. Cut into wedges and serve with low fat sour cream or additional salsa, crisp lettuce and tomato salad

Cubed steak with french onion soup topping

2011-09-16T08:25:00.000-07:00

I got the idea from Rachel Ray's French Onion Soup Casserole, so props to her! this turned out great!

Dredge cube steak in flour and add to pan with 1/4 c melted shortening until browned on both sides.
remove from pan, add 1 c water to the drippings in pan and stir, scraping the bottom.
Add 4 large onions, 1 T. Worcestershire sauce until semi-translucent.
Put meat back into pan, atop the onions. cover with lid and finish cooking cube steaks.
serve with sauteed mushrooms, buttered noodles, side of brown rice, and veggies!

healthy chicken salad sandwiches or lettuce wraps

2011-09-16T08:20:00.000-07:00

Rinse one large can of chicken (to remove some of the preservatives),
add 1 tsp. salt, 1/4 tsp. garlic powder,
2 hard boiled eggs (chopped)
1 tsp. olive oil, 3/4 C reduced fat mayo or miracle whip
2 stalks of celery, finely diced
1/2 C plain non-fat yogurt (or Greek)

Mix together, serve wrapped in Romaine lettuce leaves or whole grain bread,
green grapes and sun chips on side

spaghetti pie

2011-09-15T10:42:00.000-07:00

Beat egg and 1/2 TBS.milk in large bowl until well blended. Add cooked ,or leftover spaghetti; toss to coat. Spread onto bottom of 12-inch pie pan sprayed with cooking spray.

BROWN meat in medium skillet; drain. Stir in tomato sauce and Stove top chicken flavored dressing mix. Spread over spaghetti crust; sprinkle with Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

BAKE 20 to 25 min. or until heated through at 350 degrees.

premade freezer breakfast sandwiches

2011-09-15T10:25:00.000-07:00

Using your own pie dough, or purchased pie dough, roll out into a large rectangle. cut into 6 equal rectangles.

On one side of the each rectangle pie dough, spoon cooked ground turkey sausage, scrambled eggs, cheese, spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, or other fillings that you enjoy. Using your finder, wet the out side of each "pie".

Fold empty side over the filling side, and using a fork, press the tines into the outer edge to seal. Poke several vent hole in the top.
Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. can be frozen wrapped in foil, or even left in the fridge for quick morning starts, a fast lunch, or easy dinner.

Homemade roast beef hash

2011-09-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

Either use the beef from a leftover meal, or purchase canned beef. if canned, drain and rinse.
dredge beef (shredded) in flour and fry in skillet with 2 Tbs of butter.
Wash and cube 4-6 potatoes and parboil in sauce pan.
Add a sliced onion to the meat, add 1 Tbs. water and allow onions to cook over medium heat, until water is evaporated. If the water evaporates before the onions are done, add a Tbs at a time until cooked.
When potatoes are almost done, add to meat mixture in skillet and allow them to finish cooking and crisp on edges.

A side of fresh or frozen peas will round out your meal.

Poor man's steak

2011-09-15T10:09:00.000-07:00

i forgot about this recipe until a string of memories brought it back today. i made this for the kids when we were a little short of money...because it was yummy!

2 lbs.lean ground meat
small, finely sliced onion
1/2 c. bread crumbs or cracker crumbs
2 eggs (or egg whites!)
salt and pepper
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
mix very well. divide into large meatballs, set aside.
In a medium skillet, melt 2 Tbs. butter.
Chop a large onion (or 2) and cook until tender.
wash and trim small mushroom, slice if desired, add to pan
Add 1 C. beef broth, dash of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 T flour
mix over medium heat until gravy forms, mushrooms are cooked, set aside.
in a large skillet, spray non cook spray, and add meatballs, leaving 2 inches between.
Flatten with a spatula, brown and fry 'steaks' until cooked thoroughly.
Top cooked 'steaks' with mushrooms and onions and serve with a healthy side, like mashed cauliflower.

Minestrone soup

2011-09-12T06:41:00.001-07:00

Add large container prepared unsalted or low sodium chicken or vegetable broth to dutch oven.
Bring to boil.
Add thinly sliced baby carrot, chopped small onion, 2 large cut up tomatoes or canned tomatoes, diced zucchini. simmer for 5 minutes. Add small shell pasta and cook according to package directions. salt and pepper to taste.
serve with whole grain, toasted dinner roll or baguette

Healthy French Toast

2011-09-12T06:34:00.000-07:00

In a small bowl, combine 4 egg whites, 1tsp. vanilla and 1tsp.nutmeg. Whisk to mix evenly. Dip raisin bread into the egg mixture, coating both sides.

Place in a nonstick frying pan over medium heat. When a drop of water sizzles as it hits the pan, add bread. Sprinkle with cinnamon. Cook until both sides are golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes on each side.

serve with sugar-free maple syrup

salmon cakes

2011-09-12T06:20:00.000-07:00

Another recipe from a wonderful woman I was lucky to have in my life for a small time!

de-bone and skin 2 cans of red sockeye or pink salmon.

Add 2 eggs (beaten) 1TBS milk, salt and pepper, 1 C. bread crumbs,finely chopped onion, parsley, 2tsp. chopped garlic. Mix thoroughly.

using your hands, make balls about the size of your palm.

Heat 1 TBS of canola oil in skillet and place balls in pan (not touching), use spatula and flatten each one. Brown and crisp on one side before turning CAREFULLY.

Can be served as is, or make one of the following sauces:

healthier version: 1/4 C. greek yogurt, 1tsp. dill, 1tsp. fresh chopped mint, salt. Drizzle over cakes.

Bistro version: 1/4 C. Mayo, 1 TBS. Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 tsp lemon juice, 1/4 tsp. powdered red pepper

Greek Fries

2011-09-12T06:15:00.000-07:00

Chop Russet or Red potatoes into cubes or slice into chips.

Toss with olive oil in large skillet. Brown potatoes until cooked through. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, OR rosemary, thyme, oregano, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, salt and pepper.

great healthy side dish

Easy hamburger 'pie' casserole

2011-09-12T06:10:00.000-07:00

Brown 1 pound ground beef or turkey in large skillet. Add onion and cook until translucent. Drain and rinse 2 cans of whole green beans and add to pan. Mix in a large can (or 2 small cans) of tomato soup. Combine until evenly distributed.

Top with thinned, leftover mashed potatoes or make some according to your own recipe (that is one I cannot share!) sprinkle lightly with 1/2 C. cheddar cheese.
Bake until cheese is melted and potatoes are 'set', in 350 degree oven, approximately 20 minutes.

Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

quick veggie soup

2011-09-12T06:01:00.000-07:00

Dredge stew meat in flour, brown in a dutch oven with 1-2 TBS. of canola oil.

Add 1 large can of mixed vegetable juice (V-8), bag of mixed veggies, frozen broccoli, cauliflower, onion, diced potatoes.
simmer for 1 1/2-2 hours on Low, stirring occasionally. Add 4 TBS. instant mashed potatoes, salt and pepper to taste, and 1 TBS. sugar before serving with crackers, sandwiches, or alone.

sesame tofu

2011-09-12T05:54:00.000-07:00

Remove extra firm tofu from package and place on clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Cover with the same and place dinner plate on top to help remove some of the liquid from packaging.

Mix 2 eggs and 2T. low fat milk in a small bowl. In another bowl, place 2 T. flour, 1/2 C. Panko bread crumbs, dash or two of salt, 2 T. sesame seeds, 1 T. black sesame seeds.

Cut tofu into thin rectangular pieces. Dredge through egg mixture, followed by flour mixture.

In large skillet, on medium heat, add 1/2 C. of canola or olive oil. Brown and crisp both sides of tofu, only turning once. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Serve as a meat replacement with healthy sides.

Moo Goo Gai Pan

2011-09-12T05:38:00.000-07:00

In a skillet, brown cubes chicken in non-stick cooking spray. add 1/2 cup of water and 1 T. of powdered chicken bouillon.

Chop 2 baby carrots, package of fresh Cremini mushrooms, Savoy cabbage, and Bok Choy and put into same pan.
Drain can of water chestnuts and rinse. Add to pan, along with drained and rinsed baby corn (if preferred), and a handful of washed, fresh spinach. Cook on low-medium heat until veggies are crisp-tender.

Top with slivered almonds and scallions if you wish. Very satisfying, healthy, delicious, quick meal!

Kids favorite casserole

2011-09-12T05:22:00.000-07:00

Brown 2 pounds ground beef and onion, add a can of cream of celery soup, 2 T. of milk, drained can of whole green beans.
Layer in bottom of casserole dish, and top with tater tots.
bake according to tater tot directions, sprinkle cheddar cheese, bake until melted.
(NOT healthy!)

German potato pancakes

2011-09-12T05:15:00.000-07:00

Use leftover mashed potatoes or make a new batch.

Combine 3 C. mashed potatoes, 2 eggs, 2 T. flour, 1 tsp. onion powder or very finely chopped onions in mixer.
Using large spoon, scoop mixture into a pan on medium-high heat, well buttered. When browned and crisp, flip and crisp the other side.

serve with other German foods, or as a breakfast food. Top with scallions or applesauce, or serve alone.

German pork cutlet sandwich (weinershnitzel)

2011-09-12T05:10:00.000-07:00

Purchase pork loin or boneless chops when on sale and freeze for this quick recipe.

Pound and tenderize pork medallions until thin. Dredge in Panko bread crumbs, black pepper.

lightly fry/brown meat in a skillet using non-stick spray or shortening until no longer pink in the middle.

place each cutlet on a lightly toasted bun and top with sauerkraut and Swiss cheese.Serve with dill pickles and potato pancakes or baked chips.

At-Home calzones

2011-09-12T04:58:00.000-07:00

Roll out individual refrigerated biscuits or pizza dough (divided into 4) into rounds. place on cookie sheet or jelly roll pan.
use your choice of fillings. we use spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, ground meat, mozzarella cheese, onion, and spaghetti or pizza sauce. Fold dough in half and use the tines of a fork to pinch close around the seam.
Spray non-stick spray (PAM) and bake in a 350 degree oven for 25-30 minutes.
Serve with extra sauce and a side salad.

Beet Salad

2011-09-11T22:17:00.000-07:00

Very fast and easy!

spinach, washed and dried in large bowl with 1/4 C. sesame seeds, can of julienne beets (washed and drained), handful of raisins and of walnuts,one head fresh, chopped broccoli, 2 thinly sliced or chopped baby carrots.
In a small bowl, mix 1 C. Miracle whip, 1 TBS. of milk, 2 TBS. of white sugar, and a dash of salt. mix until sugar and salt are dissolved.
Pour dressing mixture over veggies and mix well. Tastes best if made an hour or longer before serving. Other additions include chopped hard-boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes, cauliflower, scallions

Homemade Noodles

2011-09-11T22:00:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to learn from a wonderful woman willing to share her secrets with me!

Beat 3 eggs in a large bowl.
Add 1/2 T. salt, 1 T. baking POWDER, and beat vigorously.
Adding white flour 1/4 c. at a time, use fork to mix.
When the dough no longer sticks to the sides of the bowl, roll out on a floured, flat, clean surface.Use a lot of flour to roll the dough out-this is not pie crust...the more flour, the better.
The dough should be relatively even thickness for even cooking.
Using a pizza cutter (thank you to my son, Trent for his wisdom in using this...he was 4 and figured out this little trick, saving my hands..and an hour of slow cutting!!)
Depending on your own preference, slice dough into strips of even width. Then make horizontal slices, again to your preferences. Noodles should dry completely if you plan to store or freeze for later use. I have found it is not necessary if you plan to use right away.

For homemade chicken and noodles, purchase chicken thighs and breasts OR a whole chicken. wash chicken, add to boiling pot of water. After 35 minutes, remove chicken or dark meat pcs and de-bone.
Replace chicken into hot water and add enough chicken bouillon to make a good stock (directions on jar.) Add a stick of butter...
SLOWLY add noodles, by the handful, to the boiling water, stirring constantly. Turn heat down to low-medium to cook the noodles in the broth for 30 minutes or until noodles are to your liking.
taste-test the noodles before serving to check for flavor. Sometimes you will need to add salt, pepper, or more butter. Every batch is a little different. You can also make this with an inexpensive cut of beef that you have cooked in a crock pot, replacing chicken bullion with beef.
wonderfully served over mashed potatoes and a side of veggies. A great old time comfort food!

easy, fast weeknight one skillet dinner

2011-09-11T21:55:00.001-07:00

Slice and brown sausage (turkey, all beef, or chicken, pork) horse-shoe sausage in large skillet (kielbasa type.)
Add sliced onions and peppers and 2 TBS. water, cover with lid until softened or wilted (your preference.)
Serve over brown rice or add medium, diced white potatoes to skillet 10 minutes before adding the veggies.
nice for weekdays when you have little time for prep work or cooking.

Greek Cuke Salad

2011-09-11T21:51:00.000-07:00

Spoon 1/2 C. Greek yogurt, 1 tsp. dill, 1 tsp. fresh mint, 1/4 tsp salt into bowl and mix.
Wash and chop English cucumbers into bowl. Refrigerate until needed. Can be made the day before. Great with Gyros or a heavy meat dish (steak, pork chops) or when it is very warm out.

Serve as a refreshing side dish.

White Sangria

2011-09-11T21:46:00.000-07:00

Obviously an adult only recipe!

1 bottle of sparkling sweet white wine
1 bottle of peach schnapps
1 liter of either ginger ale or lemon-lime soda
fresh in season fruit (orange and lemon slices, peach slices, pitted cherries)

Mix in large bowl or pitcher, refrigerate until needed, keep on ice while serving. Great for parties when you don't want to be stuck bar tending while everyone else is having fun.

THE best corn on the cob

2011-09-11T21:42:00.000-07:00

Okay...I know. It is corn on the cob, an American staple for summer. adding butter and salt is only needed if the corn is sub par.

That being said, I tried, and fell in love with this recipe last summer after seeing it on several day time shows. I was reluctant, but it won me over...I cannot say the same for the kids, but the hubby loves it!

After grilling or boiling or steaming your corn, brush mayo or Miracle whip (instead of butter) and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. I use Parmesan cheese for a lot of things because doesn't have the usual high fat content that other cheeses have..and it has a lot of flavor.

I hope you are brave enough to try this, and that you love it as much as I do!

Parmesan crusted chicken Breast

2011-09-11T21:31:00.000-07:00

Take a chicken breast and trim all skin and fat. Cut in half and pound to an even medium thickness. Flavor with salt and pepper.
Place chicken in a casserole dish. Cover with Miracle whip (not mayo) and top with REAL shredded Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle with chopped or dried parsley.
Place in a 350 degree oven for 45-50 minutes.
Remove from oven and allow to rest for 15 minutes.
serve with mixed greens, glazed carrots, corn on the cob, or other fiber-rich veggies.

Banana Muffins

2011-09-11T21:19:00.000-07:00

Cream 1 cup sugar, 1/2 C. brown sugar, and 1 stick of butter in a large mixing bowl. Add 2 eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
In a small bowl, mash 3 bananas with a fork. Mix in 1 TB. of milk and 1 1/2 tsp. of cinnamon. In another bowl, mix together 2 cups of flour, 3/4 C. Oatmeal, 1 tsp. of baking powder, baking soda and salt each.
Add the banana mixture to the creamed mixture and stir until combined. Add dry ingredients, DO NOT OVER MIX! Too much mixing at this time will create a very dense, dry bread. If you like, add 1 C walnuts or pecans for crunch.

Using butter flavored shortening, grease cupcake pan, dust with a mix of 1/2 white sugar and white flour, shaking out excess.

Bake in a 325 degree oven for 30-40 min, depending on your oven. remove and let rest for 10 minutes before overturning pan. Serve with butter, honey, or even marscapone cheese.

veggie quesadillas

2011-09-11T21:14:00.000-07:00

In a skillet on medium heat, semi cook peppers, onions, and if you like, ground meat. Reserve mixture in a side bowl, clean skillet and spray with non stick spray (PAM), place whole wheat tortilla in pan. After the tortilla softens, place a few tablespoons of veggie mix on half of the tortilla. Top with Mexican cheese, cheddar, or jalapeno pepper jack. Fold tortilla over (so it is now halved.) fry on both sides until crispy and golden (like you would with a grilled cheese sandwich.

serve with rice and beans, side salad, or enjoy as a snack.

Mashed Cauliflower--instead of potatoes

2011-09-07T11:15:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, if you have never had mashed cauliflower, you cannot imagine that it could even TRY to replace our beloved mashed potatoes. I will be honest, it can for every night meals, but I would be skewered if I tried to do this at Thanksgiving!

Boil cauliflower (one large head or 2 small) until done. Drain and add to mixer with 3 T. butter (yes, REAL butter), a dash of salt and pepper if you like, and enough milk to make it the consistency you prefer. Faster, healthier, and a nice alternative to a high fat side dish!

Lazy Lasagna

2011-09-07T11:04:00.000-07:00

Same great taste as a lasagna, but not as pretty. Made in less than 30 minutes!

In large skillet, brown ground meat (chicken, turkey, lean hamburger), add small-medium onion until translucent.
In a saucepan, boil water and cook spiral pasta or shell macaroni according to 'al dente' or 'firm' directions.
In skillet, add a jar of your fave spaghetti sauce (this would be a good chance to add fresh or frozen veggies or mushrooms to the mix!!)
Combine one small container of low fat cottage cheese and 1/2 package of shredded mozzarella (low fat?) in skillet with meat. when pasta is done, drain, rinse with hot water, and add to pain.
Serve with garlic bread, small salad, or whole grain toasted bread and oil with herbs (my favorite.)

Crock Pot Beef Stew

2011-09-07T10:55:00.000-07:00

Use pre-cut beef pieces from supermarket,
add into crock pot baby carrots, quartered onion, Worcestershire sauce (1-2 T, depending on your preferences), beef broth (from can or bouillon.)
Turn crockpot on high for 3 hours, if you are able to.
Add potatoes, cut into bite size pieces or larger, turn crockpot down to low and cook an additional 2-3 hours. If you like, you can make gravy from the pan juices (not healthy, but yummy!)
Serve with bread and butter or a warm, crusty whole grain bread.
If you are not able to change the temp, I have added potatoes from the beginning and cooked on low all day. It wasn't as good, but still very yummy on a cold day!

Enchilada Casserole

2011-09-07T10:48:00.000-07:00

Brown ground meat (use turkey or chicken to make it healthier)
Layer small CORN tortillas in bottom of small casserole dish.
Sprinkle meat on top of tortillas, followed by diced canned green chiles, corn (fresh, frozen, or canned), red enchilada sauce, and cheddar cheese. I usually do 3 layers.
Bake @ 350 for 30 min. Let rest for 10 minutes. Serve with crisp lettuce, chopped tomatoes, black olives, green onions. Serve with a dollop of sour cream.

Cold Weather White Bean Tortellini Soup

2011-09-07T09:55:00.000-07:00

In a large sauce pot:

1 Jar (EASY!) Navy beans (rinsed in colander)
1 rotisserie chicken or can of boneless chicken, (or if you have some leftover from another recipe!)
1 can of chicken broth or make your own with chicken bouillon (I like the powder)
2 cups of water
2 thinly sliced or chopped carrots (peeled)
Bring to a simmer. Allow to simmer for 15 minutes, (have a cup of tea or fold a load of laundry!)
Add refrigerated package of tortellini, cook according to instructions on bag. Handful of fresh spinach (save the rest for a salad.)
Garnish with green onion tops,favorite herbs, serve with a whole grain crusty bread

Perfect for Fall weather! Healthy and quick! Enjoy!

Polly wants a cracker, but I want chocolate cake!

Peanut Butter Fudge

Georgetown Cupcake's Maple Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

Veggie stuffing from Daphne Oz

Browned butter cookies with CARAMEL frosting

Tomato, Pesto, Feta grilled sandwich

My son is home from Basic/AIT!!!!!

Polly wants a cracker, but I want chocolate cake!: Autumn is here!

Autumn is here!

Swiss Apfelkuchen Tart

chicken cordon bleu casserole

Hobo packs on the grill

Crockpot sweet and sour chicken

Crockpot Porcupine Meatballs

Easy Crockpot Cabbage and kielbasa

Pumpkin Breakfast Muffins

Pumkin Pie Custard

At-home Calzones

cornflake chicken -one of Teage's faves

Impossibly easy crustless pumpkin pie

unstuffed peppers from Kraft!

What You Need

Make It

ugh!!! The first bite of the flu at our house!

Kraft chicken and broccoli

I took this from the Kraft newsletter...

Make It

Kraft Kitchens Tips

Greek omelette- 2o minutes or less!

whole wheat quesadillas

Cubed steak with french onion soup topping

healthy chicken salad sandwiches or lettuce wraps

spaghetti pie

premade freezer breakfast sandwiches

Homemade roast beef hash

Poor man's steak

Minestrone soup

Healthy French Toast

salmon cakes

Greek Fries

Easy hamburger 'pie' casserole

quick veggie soup

sesame tofu

Moo Goo Gai Pan

Kids favorite casserole

German potato pancakes

German pork cutlet sandwich (weinershnitzel)

At-Home calzones

Beet Salad

Homemade Noodles

easy, fast weeknight one skillet dinner

Greek Cuke Salad

*White Sangria*

THE best corn on the cob

Parmesan crusted chicken Breast

Banana Muffins

veggie quesadillas

Mashed Cauliflower--instead of potatoes

Lazy Lasagna

Crock Pot Beef Stew

Enchilada Casserole

Cold Weather White Bean Tortellini Soup

White Sangria