tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53194789796946093232024-03-06T00:30:19.783-07:00anything but meatloafSalemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.comBlogger110125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-6350282789255032532012-01-02T12:31:00.001-07:002012-01-02T12:33:18.679-07:00A Break.<div align="center"><span style="font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;color:#339999;"><strong>It's time for a little break from the blog for me. It's not an indefinite break, so don't worry. I'll check in now and then to share some favorite recipes & meal ideas. Happy 2012!</strong></span></div>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-50386948954049437552011-12-13T14:12:00.003-07:002011-12-13T14:41:54.039-07:00Busy, Busy!Here I am for a quick post--then it's time to get to more present wrapping, party planning and crafting. I LOVE this time of year! Here is what we're eating for dinners this week:<br /><br />*Monday: Leftovers. We loved the Pork Tacos--I especially loved how easy they were!<br /><br />*Tuesday: Never made <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/thai-red-chicken-curry-00000000029751/index.html">Chicken Curry</a> last week, and I have all the ingredients, plus Burke LOVES curry...<br /><br />*Wednesday: Simple <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/314288/simple-chicken-noodle-soup">Chicken Noodle Soup</a><br /><br />*Thursday: <a href="http://www.recipegirl.com/2010/09/29/baked-penne-with-spinach-roasted-red-peppers-bacon/"> Penne with Spinach & Peppers</a>--the kids LOVED this when I made it a few weeks ago, time for a repeat.<br /><br />*Friday: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/332312/spicy-black-bean-cakes"> Black Bean Cakes</a> <span style="font-size:85%;">(with avocados)</span><br /><br />*Saturday: Downtown for dinner & Christmas lights!<br /><br />*Sunday: Leftovers <span style="font-size:85%;">(or Nachos)</span>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-40052827534255312022011-12-05T10:40:00.004-07:002011-12-13T14:42:33.933-07:00New week.<div>Sorry for the absence of a post last week. I have no excuse, really. And I feel like between now and Christmas I am so busy, that dinners are going to be put on the back burner (haha). But planning them out always helps...so here's the plan:<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Monday: Baked Potatoes <span style="font-size:85%;">(or as my kids call them, "mountain potatoes". we like to top them with lots of corn, broccoli, peas, cheese, bacon, green onions, tomatoes and any other good stuff we can think of--making them like mountains.)<br /><br /></span></div><div> </div><div>*Tuesday: <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/lentil-soup-recipe/index.html">Lentil Soup </a><span style="font-size:85%;">(we LOVE this stuff...)<br /><br /></span></div><div> </div><div>*Wednesday: <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/thai-red-chicken-curry-00000000029751/index.html">Chicken Curry</a> with Rice<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Thursday: Leftovers<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Friday: Girl's Night! We'll be eating somewhere yummy...Burke will get to play chef here at home while I'm gone. ;)<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Saturday: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/332795/white-bean-dip">White Bean Dip</a> with crusty bread slices & fruit<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Sunday: Crock Pot<a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/pulled-pork-tacos-10000001873141/"> Pulled Pork Tacos</a></div>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-18372029312345474792011-11-21T10:09:00.004-07:002011-11-21T10:43:15.270-07:00Thankful Week.Isn't Thanksgiving great? Don't you love how this time of year practically forces you to think about all that you have? It's such a great feeling to realize that no matter how difficult our circumstances, we have A LOT. Just being able to live on this earth is an incredibly special gift. I'll be spending my Thanksgiving day with my parents (Burke is working all day :( ) and children. As for the rest of the week, today is day #1 of potty training. We'll see if I end up getting dinner on the table each night...<br /><br />*Monday: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/honey-lime-enchiladas/detail.aspx">Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas</a> <span style="font-size:85%;">(thanks to my sister)</span><span style="display: block;" id="formatbar_Buttons"><span onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 8);ButtonMouseDown(this);" class=" down" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_CreateLink" title="Link"><img src="http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif" alt="Link" class="gl_link" border="0" /></span></span><br />*Tuesday: We didn't end up having Lasagna last Sunday, so tonight we'll have <a href="http://pinchofyum.com/butternut-squash-lasagna">Butternut Squash Lasagna</a>...YUM!<br /><br />*Wednesday: Leftovers & baking pies! I'll be making <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/344255/old-fashioned-apple-pie">Apple Pie</a> with <a href="http://www.joythebaker.com/blog/2011/08/peach-blueberry-pie/">THIS</a> crust <span style="font-size:85%;">(with apple cider vinegar??!! Can't wait to try!)</span> & <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/old-fashioned-coconut-cream-pie/detail.aspx">Coconut Cream Pie<br /></a><br />*Thursday: The Big Day! My menu today was sort of inspired by an episode of <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/throwdown-with-bobby-flay/index.html">"Throwdown"</a> that I happened to watch. Bobby Flay battled Ree Drummond <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/"><span style="font-size:85%;">(Pioneer Woman)</span></a>, and SHE won! The food all looked amazing, so we'll see how it tastes. We'll be eating:<br /><br />-Simple Turkey <span style="font-size:85%;">(I don't even do anything to mine. Maybe a little salt & pepper. I've had brined/seasoned/plain turkeys before, and they all taste equally as yummy to me! So I'm sticking with simple this year)</span><br />-Stuffing-I'll use a classic recipe similar to <a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/classic-bread-stuffing/129aa22f-2203-483e-a7a9-dde5b5c6b715">THIS</a> one.<br />-<a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/creamy-mashed-potatoes-recipe/index.html">Mashed Potatoes </a>& gravy <span style="font-size:85%;">(I just make this up with the turkey drippings, flour, salt & pepper)</span><br />-Sweet Potatoes<span style="font-size:85%;"> (simple again. I roast mine in the oven with a little butter & brown sugar until they are soft & golden)</span><br />-<a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/bobby-flay/roasted-brussels-sprouts-with-pomegranates-and-vanilla-pecan-butter-recipe/index.html">Brussels Sprouts</a> <span style="font-size:85%;">(I have to have something green! And we don't do green bean casserole around here...)</span><br />-<a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Corn-Bread-Pudding">Cornbread Pudding</a><br />-<a href="http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2010/11/lion-house-rolls.html">Rolls</a><br />-2 pies <span style="font-size:85%;">(see yesterday's post)</span><br />-<a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/bobby-flay/pumpkin-bread-pudding-with-spicy-caramel-apple-sauce-and-vanilla-bean-creme-anglaise-recipe/index.html">Pumpkin Bread Pudding</a> <span style="font-size:85%;">(I know it's crazy, we're not having pumpkin pie. But this looks DELICIOUS, and I'm using the excuse that when I do my big turkey dinner on Christmas Eve, I'll make pumpkin pie then.)</span><br /><br />*Friday: Are you kidding? Leftovers for the rest of the weekend..... ;)Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-85585238358684771432011-11-16T16:08:00.001-07:002011-11-21T10:06:20.538-07:00fall cookin'Here are some good eats we've enjoyed this season and thought to be worth sharing: <br />
<br />
1. My mom used to make <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/lion-house-wassail/detail.aspx">this cider</a> during the holidays; it tastes like Christmas and home to me. We had some with <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/gluten-free-pumpkin-bread-393411">this GF pumpkin bread</a> (there were some gluten free-ers in da house) while we carved spooky pumpkins and enjoyed this lovely fall season.<br />
<br />
2. The main dish for Sunday dinner last week was <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/honey-lime-enchiladas/detail.aspx">honey-lime chicken enchiladas</a>. It was suggested by one attendee that these taste Cafe Rio-like. I'm not here to confirm or deny, but anything worthy of that comparison is at least worthy of trying. That should be a good enough hint.<br />
<br />
3. A tangy beef stew recipe adapted from <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/slow-cooker-recipe-classic-beef-stew-10000000614077/index.html">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Ingredients<br />
<ul>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 pounds </span><span itemprop="name">bottom round, well trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">3/4 cup </span><span itemprop="name">all-purpose flour</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/4 c olive oil </span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 onions, diced</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 </span><span itemprop="name">6-ounce can tomato paste</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/2 cup </span><span itemprop="name">red wine vinegar</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">6-8 large potatoes, diced </span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1lb carrots (either baby, or cut)</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 cups </span><span itemprop="name">beef broth (or any broth, really)</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 tablespoon </span><span itemprop="name">kosher salt</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 teaspoon </span><span itemprop="name">dried thyme leaves</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 </span><span itemprop="name">bay leaf</span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 package frozen peas, thawed</span></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
Directions <br />
<div class="recipeDirections">
<ol>
<li> Coat the beef in the flour. Heat a few tablespoons of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meat, a
few pieces at a time, adding more oil as necessary. Transfer to a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker.
</li>
<li>Add the onions to the skillet and cook over medium heat until tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and coat
the onions; transfer to the cooker.
</li>
<li>Pour the wine into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits; add to the cooker. Stir in the potatoes, carrots, broth, salt,
thyme, and bay leaf.
</li>
<li>Cover and cook on low heat for 7 1/2 hours, or on high for 5 hours. Add the peas and heat through.</li>
</ol>
4. And lastly, my new favorite tradition: <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Stuffed-Pumpkin-Dinner">dinner in a pumpkin</a>. I used wild rice, ground turkey instead of beef, omitted the ham, added a few more bell peppers, and instead of one large pumpkin we used four sugar pumpkins so everyone had their own. I don't know if this is the best recipe, but it was so fun and there are lots of recipes out there to combine or alter. Let it be heard, pumpkin season is not over!</div>sarahverahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03700498869912310731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-59805837655064346072011-11-14T16:06:00.004-07:002011-11-16T08:54:35.657-07:00Pumpkin Muffins & a Thankful Tree...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik787VjTuhIQ0R-CeDc27y1zCPoy4MxNUMy2xm0nWrg90C2l5Q1rg7RIfHpkrmDMPTq01OMI39F_qWMjerSRARoXHuNcf0D6l0Wgxi5NCItZh0Suqucl2LIVYlXMtI9KvU5b0b3ltOwI4/s1600/IMG_9945.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik787VjTuhIQ0R-CeDc27y1zCPoy4MxNUMy2xm0nWrg90C2l5Q1rg7RIfHpkrmDMPTq01OMI39F_qWMjerSRARoXHuNcf0D6l0Wgxi5NCItZh0Suqucl2LIVYlXMtI9KvU5b0b3ltOwI4/s400/IMG_9945.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674994280977705714" border="0" /></a><br />If you can't tell, I am so in love with this time of year. We finally got our "thankful tree" going, I made some delicious <span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/pumpkin-muffins-ii/detail.aspx">Pumpkin Muffins</a></span>, and I've started planning our Thanksgiving feast. I am one happy girl. And by the way, those muffins really were amazing. I used part white flour/part wheat flour/part flax and applesauce instead of oil to healthify them a little. And they were still scrumptious. The children loved going on a walk one day to find sticks for our Thankful Tree. I added some yarn to a few of the branches, printed out "I am Thankful For ______" tags, and I love the things that have already been added. My favorite is Ryder's "being in this earth". ;) With Burke gone a lot these days, I'm not feeling super motivated to make elaborate dinners, so here is our simple menu for the week:<br /><br />*Monday: Grilled Cheese & "Red Soup" (we like the store bought low sodium Red Pepper & Tomato Soup cartons. You can usually find them near the health foods, if not in the soup aisle.)<br /><br />*Tuesday: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/318275/lighter-chicken-pot-pie"> Chicken Pot Pie</a><br /><br />*Wednesday: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/312691/squash-pot-stickers?czone=food/produce-guide-cnt/produce-guide-fall">Squash Pot Stickers</a> & fried rice (my kids usually love pot stickers, and they LOVE dipping things. We'll see how the squash goes over. For the rice, I use sticky white rice, mix whatever veggies I have in--usually peas, chopped carrots, chopped red peppers, scallions, etc. I fry this in a tiny bit of sesame oil with salt, pepper & soy sauce. At the end I add 1 egg to my mixture, and stir until the egg is cooked. Sometimes I add chicken or chopped ham for a heartier rice.)<br /><br />*Thursday: <a href="http://anythingbutmeatloaf.blogspot.com/2010/11/november-menu.html">Baked Potato Soup</a> + Cheddar/Jalapeno Biscuits <span style="font-size:85%;">(see recipe below--from<a href="www.smittenkitchen.com"> HERE</a>)</span><br />*Friday: Leftovers<br /><br />*Saturday: Down Town Chicago Date. I'm super excited to ride the train, sans kids, meet my husband downtown and eat in peace & quiet. Believe me, I'll be savoring each & every bite.<br /><br />*Sunday: Easy One Pot <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/338181/three-cheese-skillet-lasagna?czone=food/comfort-foods-center/comfort-foods-dishes">Lasagna</a> & Salad<br /><br /><p><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>Sour Cream and Cheddar Biscuits</b><a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Chili-con-Carne-with-Chili-Cheddar-Shortcakes-10299"><br /></a></span></p><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><p><span style="font-size:85%;">1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour<br />2 teaspoons baking powder<br />1/2 teaspoon baking soda<br />1/2 teaspoon salt<br />2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into bits<br />1/4 pound sharp Cheddar cheese, coarsely grated (about 1 1/2 cups)<br />Drained and chopped pickled jalapeños, to taste (I used about 2 tablespoons)<br />1 cup sour cream</span></p><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><p><span style="font-size:85%;">Preheat oven to 425°F. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl. Either cut the butter pieces into the flour mixture with a pastry blender or rub them in with your fingertips until well-combined. Stir in the cheddar, jalapeños and sour cream until the mixture forms a sticky dough. Pat it out to a 1/2-inch thickness on a very well-floured counter and use a 3 1/2-inch biscuit cutter to cut six rounds. Bake on an ungreased (or parchment-lined, if your baking sheets are as “weathered” as mine are) for 15 to 17 minutes, until golden on top.</span><br /></p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="display: block;" id="formatbar_Buttons"><span class=" on down" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_CreateLink" title="Link" onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 8);ButtonMouseDown(this);"></span></span></span>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-1901720906119391432011-11-07T06:35:00.004-07:002011-11-07T07:00:19.916-07:00Take a look...<div>...at our menu this week. It's going to be tasty!<br /><br />*Monday: <a href="http://anythingbutmeatloaf.blogspot.com/2011/10/trick-or-treat.html">Orzo with Roasted Vegetables </a><span style="font-size:85%;">(didn't get to this last week...and I really want to try it!)<br /><br /></span></div><div> </div><div>*Tuesday: Thanks to <a href="http://pinterest.com/">Pinterest</a>, tonight we're having <a href="http://www.recipegirl.com/2010/09/29/baked-penne-with-spinach-roasted-red-peppers-bacon/">Baked Penne with Spinach, Bacon & Roasted Red Peppers</a><br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Wednesday: Panini night. My Mom was talking about Panini's the other day and had me craving one. We'll use yummy bread, and top with any meats/veggies/sauces we have, then cook in our George Forman (<span style="font-size:85%;">no panini press around here :(</span> )<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Thursday: <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/recipes/1381">Spicy Spaghetti Squash with Black Beans</a>. Every now and then I wander through the incredible Whole Foods. I love browsing their recipe cards, and picked this one up because of the picture. Can't wait to try it...<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Friday: Leftovers<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Saturday: Downtown--we have a looooooooong list of restaurants to try.<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Sunday: Easy Crockpot <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/313619/slow-cooker-pot-roast?backto=true&backtourl=/photogallery/slow-cooker-recipes">Pot Roast</a> </div>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-64954363920654507352011-10-31T06:46:00.005-06:002011-11-01T07:27:42.202-06:00Trick or Treat!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLhsY_-kY0eskmPChh510P4qovyFXRpZgWltNYRWmilOMGhoA-LO3_Mz6RUfuN00xYqdYNwEzNLTmS72dWTxLkPi-hojouEtzMAgwTiLrLlFZdL9UYmC6d8AiKxkRV9YfcfRiswDA42ro/s1600/2011-10-25collage.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLhsY_-kY0eskmPChh510P4qovyFXRpZgWltNYRWmilOMGhoA-LO3_Mz6RUfuN00xYqdYNwEzNLTmS72dWTxLkPi-hojouEtzMAgwTiLrLlFZdL9UYmC6d8AiKxkRV9YfcfRiswDA42ro/s400/2011-10-25collage.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669687434327538402" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Happy Halloween everyone! I'm about to go make the kiddos some orange scrambled eggs <span style="font-size:85%;">(a couple drops of red food coloring mixed in)</span> with "pumpkin toast" <span style="font-size:85%;">(pumpkin cookie cutter to cut the bread)</span>. We are excited for some trick or treating tonight <span style="font-size:85%;">(I've had a bunch of orange burlap that I bought on sale a while ago, and decided to make the kiddos their own bags to hold their treats...) <span style="font-size:100%;">and then home to make our caramel apples</span> (we didn't get to this on Saturday). </span><span style="font-size:100%;"> I hope you have a festive day, and here is our meal plan for the week!<br /><br /></span></div><div> </div><div>*Monday: Growing up my Mom always made soup/chili/stew on Halloween night. We always had to fill our tummies up with dinner before heading out to collect treats. I like that idea. So tonight we'll have our leftover Chili & Cornbread.<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Tuesday: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/336692/tortilla-and-black-bean-pie">Black Bean Pie </a><span style="font-size:85%;">(with avocados)<br /><br /></span></div><div> </div><div>*Wednesday: Baked Potato Night<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Thursday: Orzo with Roasted Vegetables <span style="font-size:85%;">(see recipe below)</span><br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Friday: Leftovers<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Saturday: Date night. FINALLY! We have several restaurants we've been itching to try...<br /><br />*Sunday:<span style="font-size:85%;"> <span style="font-size:100%;">Nachos <span style="font-size:85%;">(like <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/317849/ultimate-nachos?czone=food/vegetarian-cnt/vegetarian-ethnic-recipes">these</a>) <span style="font-size:100%;">have become one of our favorite "fast meals". Trader Joe's has some yummy refried Black Beans that we love. Topped with some good salsa, peppers & avocados, I hardly even need the chips!</span></span></span><br /></span></div><div> </div> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:78%;" >Orzo with Roasted Vegetables</span><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Ingredients:</strong></span></span></div> <ul><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">1 small eggplant, peeled and diced</span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">1 red pepper, diced</span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">1 yellow pepper, diced</span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">1 red onion, diced</span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">2 cloves of garlic, minced</span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">1/3 c olive oil</span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">1 tsp kosher salt</span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">1/2 tsp pepper</span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">1/2 lb orzo</span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">4 scallions, minced<br /></span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">1/4 cup toasted pine nuts</span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">feta cheese</span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">fresh basil for garnish (optional)</span></div></li></ul> <p align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">for the dressing:</span></p> <ul><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">1/2 c fresh squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)</span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">1/2 cup olive oil</span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">1/2 tsp pepper</span></div></li><li> <div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">1 tsp kosher salt (or less)</span></div></li></ul> <p align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Directions:</span><br /></strong></span></p> <p align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">1. preheat oven to 425*. toss eggplant, peppers, onion, garlic, olive oil, S&P. place on baking dish and roast for 30-40 minutes, until browned.</span></p> <p align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">2. meanwhile, cook the orzo according to directions. drain and transfer to large serving bowl.</span></p> <p align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">3. add roasted vegetables to the orzo, scraping all the liquid and seasonings from the roasting pan.</span></p> <p align="left"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:78%;">4. combine all the ingredients for the dressing and pour over orzo. let cool (room temp) and add scallions, pine nuts , feta and basil.</span> </span></p>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-27394859034962898582011-10-25T09:09:00.006-06:002011-10-25T14:31:35.161-06:00And finally, a weekly menu:<div align="left"> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTuq193DMDsbTzfAi_VyoFpsB0mU4O6eH-IjC56BBEMiSCir4JtN4kIjXZ6udBQmeYxm_SxTgu7ANN5DlI0Uh8dlW11mQWBUrcmDkXq9V-LYDrWlJ6z_RHe2St4Wjnet8nfH_j7RCYRA/s1600/106.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; height: 267px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667450793773175138" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTuq193DMDsbTzfAi_VyoFpsB0mU4O6eH-IjC56BBEMiSCir4JtN4kIjXZ6udBQmeYxm_SxTgu7ANN5DlI0Uh8dlW11mQWBUrcmDkXq9V-LYDrWlJ6z_RHe2St4Wjnet8nfH_j7RCYRA/s400/106.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;">...and some pie. You want a good Peanut Butter pie? <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/333937/peanut-butter-tart">This</a> is the one.</span></div><div align="left"><br />I've been cooking away, without telling you what I'm cooking, and feeling the need to share. Here is what we had last week/are having this week:<br /><br />*Monday: Hogi night. We passed a Subway the other day and Ryder really wanted to go there. He listed all the ingredients he would want on a Subway sandwich, and was quite amazed when I told him we had all those things at home! So tonight we're eating his favorite--"Subway bread" (<span style="font-size:85%;">store-bought sandwich buns</span>), turkey, bacon, pickles, cucumbers, cheese and mustard. ;) I'm adding lots of other veggies like, tomatoes, lettuce, avocados, sprouts, etc. to mine. We also have lots of veggies for a veggie/dip plate & apples with caramel dip.<br /><br />*Tuesday: <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/parmesan-roasted-acorn-squash-00100000066897/index.html"> Parmesan Squash Wedges</a> & Wild Rice (<span style="font-size:85%;">from Trader Joe's<span style="font-size:100%;">)</span></span><br /><br />*Wednesday: I've never made <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/pumpkin-soup-00100000066890/">Pumpkin Soup</a>, and decided now is as good a time as any. Doesn't it sound so cozy and delicious to be eating warm Pumpkin soup for dinner on a chilly night in October?<br /><br />*Thursday: Leftovers<br /><br />*Friday: Tonight is the Trunk-or-Treat! I'll be contributing <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/slow-cooker-vegetarian-chili-with-sweet-potatoes-00000000049528/index.html">Chili</a>, Cornbread muffins (<span style="font-size:85%;">To be honest, I LOVE the 39 cent Jiffy mix. For sake of time, I'll probably use a few of those</span>), <a href="http://mingmakescupcakes.yolasite.com/">cupcakes</a> (<span style="font-size:85%;">for the cake walk</span>) and <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/333937/peanut-butter-tart">THIS</a> pie (<span style="font-size:85%;">If this pie doesn't win, the judges are crazy...</span>)<br /><br />*Saturday: Burke day! Burke is on an incredibly busy rotation right now. In fact, he's only had 4 days off the entire month. And the days he works, he works ALL DAY LONG. Today we're having our family fall celebration. We'll be carving pumpkins, making <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/2009/10/apple-cider-doughnuts/">doughnuts</a> and decorating <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/caramel-apples-10000001116630/index.html">caramel apples</a>.<br /><br />*Sunday: Simple Salmon (<span style="font-size:85%;">broil for 5-10 mins. with a little salt & Pepper</span>) and <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/312991/loaded-sweet-potato-skins?czone=food/produce-guide-cnt/produce-guide-fall">Loaded Sweet-Potato Skins</a><br /><br />I also made some <a href="http://anythingbutmeatloaf.blogspot.com/2010/10/pumpkin-chocolate-chip-cookies.html">Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies</a>, <a href="http://anythingbutmeatloaf.blogspot.com/2010/02/good-eats.html">White Chicken Chili</a>, <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/sausage-broccoli-calzones-recipe-00000000033704/index.html">"Pizza Pockets"</a>, <a href="http://anythingbutmeatloaf.blogspot.com/2011/09/welcome-fall.html">Homemade Macaroni & Cheese</a> and <a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/pretzel-mm-cookies/">Pretzel m&m Cookies</a> last week while entertaining guests.<br /></div>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-89829242609647760992011-10-25T09:05:00.002-06:002011-10-25T09:09:24.646-06:00The winner is...<div style="text-align: center;">...<span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);font-size:180%;" >Joanna</span>! My first giveaway sort of backfired on me, because the first comment was actually the winner! Dulce de Leche is the Queen of all ice creams for me (although I would never turn down any of the other flavors. ;) Email me, or leave a comment with your favorite color, Jo and I'll send you your prize! Thanks for playing...maybe another giveaway at 200 posts?!<br /></div>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-64799847406907297892011-10-20T07:24:00.003-06:002011-10-20T13:36:42.989-06:00100th Post!<div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><img style="visibility: visible; opacity: 1;" id="main-img" title="Latte Bowls - Anthropologie.com" alt="Image Detail" src="http://images.anthropologie.com/is/image/Anthropologie/973328_023_b?$product410x615$" height="615" width="410" /></div><div align="center"><br />I've been anticipating this post for a while now. I realize I never posted a menu for this week, but I've been having too much fun playing with my brother & his family. So to celebrate that I've been <span style="font-size:85%;">(sort of)</span> keeping this blog going for 100 posts <span style="font-size:85%;">(thanks to my sister's who have also contributed posts!)</span>, I think I'm ready to host my first ever <span style="color: rgb(51, 153, 153);font-size:180%;color:#00cccc;" >GIVEAWAY</span>! Get excited....really. </div><div align="center">I thought long and hard about what I should give, and what I would want if I were a winner. I decided on my <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=073205&catId=HOME-TABLETOP-DINNERWARE&pushId=HOME-TABLETOP-DINNERWARE&popId=HOME&navCount=12&color=035&isProduct=true&fromCategoryPage=true&isSubcategory=true&subCategoryId=HOME-TABLETOP-DINNERWARE">favorite bowls</a>. If you don't have some of these, you probably should. They're the perfect size for soup, cereal, ice cream, etc . They're also pretty enough to display, and microwave/dishwasher safe. If you win this giveaway, you will receive one set (4 bowls) in the color of your choice, shipped straight to your house. Takers?! </div><div align="center">To win, leave a comment guessing my favorite flavor of ice cream<span style="font-size:85%;"> (if you win, you could eat some in your new bowls!)</span>. You're allowed one guess, and I'll keep the guessing game going until someone wins. Good luck!</div>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-83898815809991925842011-10-10T10:43:00.005-06:002011-10-10T11:58:29.254-06:00In lou...<div style="text-align: center;">...of a regular post this week, I'm trying something new. I'm headed to Michigan for the week, but wanted to post something (although thanks SO much to my amazing sister, you're getting plenty of great ideas for dinners). Since I have a baby right in the "baby food phase", I decided to share my best tips regarding baby food.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4kCq4LDTUsCeP5_4QY0Bgq5TNnm59Oos4BtYvnq8SluDtWnmV611QhhqFO-lZ7ZFexQQXIvmyMXTKuzOn9rT8VBd-097EJuSazg9_xAOjoAq5V0xQz7aWl-9cIbB_sJ3biKZjUM4ygDI/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4kCq4LDTUsCeP5_4QY0Bgq5TNnm59Oos4BtYvnq8SluDtWnmV611QhhqFO-lZ7ZFexQQXIvmyMXTKuzOn9rT8VBd-097EJuSazg9_xAOjoAq5V0xQz7aWl-9cIbB_sJ3biKZjUM4ygDI/s400/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5661906955137110210" border="0" /></a><br />Some people probably don't get as excited as me when this phase begins, but I love being able to introduce my babies to real food. It is a lot of work (if you make your own baby food) or money (if you buy it all), but I love knowing my babies tummies' are full of good fruits and veggies.<br />With my first child I strictly bought baby food. With my second baby, I used a hand held immersion blender and made it myself, and now (thanks to my Mom last year for my birthday) I love using my food processor.<br />As far as I'm concerned, making baby food is extremely basic and very easy. I choose what veggies I want my baby to eat, steam them until they are soft, and then mix the living daylights out of them (with a little water or chicken/vegetable stock) until they are the consistency I like. The other day I made peas, roasted butternut squash & carrots--each mixed with brown rice. I love my <a href="http://www.landofnod.com/kids-travel-accessories/kids-gear/to-each-their-own-food-storage/f6975">Beaba freezer trays</a> (I also love that I found them on clearance at our Land of Nod outlet), but ice cube trays work just as well.<br />There are many websites that can help and lots of books, like <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/201-organic-baby-purees-tamika-gardner/1031035979?ean=9781440528996&itm=1&usri=201%2borganic%2bbaby%2bpurees&cm_mmc=AFFILIATES-_-Linkshare-_-fTzqa/S0*gM-_-10:1">this one</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Top-100-Baby-Purees-Healthy/dp/0743289579/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1318266577&sr=8-1">this one</a>, and I have mainly used <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Super-Baby-Food-Ruth-Yaron/dp/0965260313">this one</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEH_4Jk1zQOZJx8h3jxu8NEiLMuFV_RFRULWfNQgYgVTLx97XuY8STEQgr3VN0-fYbwpIKMsmEroIjMwd5pS-pCXMWSq7Zl4fhOc66IqQioqvPqY7MXHatH6tV41XLpsYCnyHq1BV97N4/s1600/011.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEH_4Jk1zQOZJx8h3jxu8NEiLMuFV_RFRULWfNQgYgVTLx97XuY8STEQgr3VN0-fYbwpIKMsmEroIjMwd5pS-pCXMWSq7Zl4fhOc66IqQioqvPqY7MXHatH6tV41XLpsYCnyHq1BV97N4/s400/011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5661906965201223586" border="0" /></a><br />I recognize that babies should receive most of their nourishment by breast milk or formula until about 12 months of age. But my children get their teeth fairly early and I like them to be used to eating regular food by the time they turn 1. Here is the simple recipe I used for my 3 baby foods this week:</div><br />-1 medium sized Butternut Squash, seeds & skin removed, roasted in the oven until soft (or about 5 carrots diced and steamed, or 1/2 bag frozen peas cooked)<br />-1 1/2 c. water (or you can use stock)<br />-1/2 c. brown rice, cooked<br /><br />Blend all ingredients in food processor (or with immersion blender) until smooth. Add water if needed to reach desired consistency. Refrigerate or freeze in individual portions.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN3sggEn-gvAxOPjdfpXw57wBm5c_hD-8d8kYb-2YHDk3-Gihn-dazWK9AgQWXDyPQOaz7UPVcURJSs8NRn9YmYKefar-nfk4NqZnsIltr_HvGkTFo9buYkGGPAsm3xOemyopSFt29PIQ/s1600/022.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN3sggEn-gvAxOPjdfpXw57wBm5c_hD-8d8kYb-2YHDk3-Gihn-dazWK9AgQWXDyPQOaz7UPVcURJSs8NRn9YmYKefar-nfk4NqZnsIltr_HvGkTFo9buYkGGPAsm3xOemyopSFt29PIQ/s400/022.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5661909757711736354" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwoRI3i11ZjHaWhVTCFiRx2DTNT8W4fcUxt2Ep4s06fWaKSemhdNI3oCpOpxVwDOGd_bWhU2vjzxc8aSl8BK45tjj6nBw6ojjhlxwJgnFiQC4MN-HF2AYatasgaRPBAj_8pFz-pYCDApM/s1600/027.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwoRI3i11ZjHaWhVTCFiRx2DTNT8W4fcUxt2Ep4s06fWaKSemhdNI3oCpOpxVwDOGd_bWhU2vjzxc8aSl8BK45tjj6nBw6ojjhlxwJgnFiQC4MN-HF2AYatasgaRPBAj_8pFz-pYCDApM/s400/027.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5661909767261857506" border="0" /></a><br />Other things I like to feed my 6-12 month old babies are:<br /><br />-sweet potatoes (I bake a sweet potato or 2 every week and leave them in the fridge. When my baby is hungry, I toss half of a soft sweet potato in the microwave and I've got an easy meal.)<br />-soups<br />-avocados<br />-whatever we're eating (usually my babies end up not caring for baby food because they want to go right to the real stuff!)<br />-oatmeal<br />-spinach/broccoli (I like to have these cooked/pureed to add to other baby foods. They seem like they are 2 flavors that kids shy away from...not around here!)<br />-bananas<br />-pumpkin (canned or fresh)<br />-Beans (these are a GREAT finger food, and a good protein too!)<br />-eggs (scrambled or boiled & diced)<br /><br /></div>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-70184390141415720712011-10-09T19:45:00.000-06:002011-10-09T19:45:08.583-06:002 easies<br />
Here are 2 easy recipes we used last week:<br />
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<b><u>Easy Peasy Crock-pot Chili</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b><br />
Monday was a day I woke up and realized I hadn't given any thought to what was for dinner. My first thought was the crock-pot. My second thought was the cooler fall temperatures and how fun it would be to have some warm soup. I knew I had to use whatever was on hand and didn't have much time before work, so this was kind of a throw-it-together chili, but it turned out yummy so I thought I would share.<br />
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Ingredients:<br />
onion (I used about 1.5)<br />
2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes<br />
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce<br />
1 can corn<br />
2 cans beans (I used 1 kidney and 1 great northern)<br />
any other veggies on hand (I used some carrots and bell peppers)<br />
and any spices you like, I used 1T chili powder, some cumin, oregano, S&P, red pepper flakes, and a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg<br />
<br />
Throw it all in the crock-pot, stir it up, and turn on low heat for about 6 hours. If you like your chili thicker, stir some cornstarch (mixed in water first) in the pot about 10 minutes before you're ready to serve it and turn it up to high heat.<br />
<br />
Serve with cornbread, cheese, sour cream, scallions, or whatever fixings you like.<br />
<br />
See? It's quick, easy, and open to a myriad of flavors :-).<br />
<b><u><br /></u></b><br />
<b><u>Mediterranean Inspired Stir-fry</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b><br />
I've been on a Mediterranean kick lately and Friday was another night that I didn't know what was for dinner (it's been a busy week). With that combination, the following ensued:<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
olive oil<br />
onion<br />
garlic<br />
veggies (tomato, bell pepper, carrot is what I used)<br />
garbanzo beans (drained and rinsed)<br />
spices<br />
cucumber<br />
feta cheese<br />
<br />
Heat pan, coat with oil. Add onion and garlic, cook for a few minutes. Add whatever veggies you have/like, cook until crisp. Add garbanzo beans (I used 1 can) and your favorite spices (I used basil, cloves, garlic, oregano, parsley, rosemary, and thyme). Cook until beans are heated through, add a little more olive oil if needed.<br />
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Serve over your favorite grain and top with diced cucumber and feta cheese. It's scrumptious.<br />
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sarahverahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03700498869912310731noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-56373509089456440912011-10-05T10:11:00.001-06:002011-10-05T10:11:36.751-06:00Birthday PieLast weekend was an exciting one. It was <a href="http://lds.org/general-conference?lang=eng">General Conference</a>, my parents and my mother-in-law were in town, my brother ran the St. George marathon, and my husband took the LSAT. Perhaps the most exciting part of the weekend was that I got to be with my mom on her birthday, which hasn't happened for a few years.<br />
<br />
When I asked her what her favorite dessert is, apple pie was the answer. Isn't that a great choice? I also know she loves all things lemon and had been itching to make a cheesecake, so we had two desserts:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/344255/old-fashioned-apple-pie">Apple pie</a> using <a href="http://www.joythebaker.com/blog/2011/08/peach-blueberry-pie/">this crust</a> again, and a <a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/lemon-raspberry-cheesecake-10000000833225/">lemon raspberry cheesecake</a>.<br />
<br />
And when I say two desserts what I really mean is four. Two is what we planned for and what I was expecting, but we had extra pie filling (and crust) so we made an apple crisp, and had extra cheesecake filling so we made little cheesecake cupcakes. So if you happen to try these recipes on the same day, just be prepared to feed a sugar-hungry army. (Not to mention my dad bought a couple cartons of <a href="http://dining.byu.edu/creamery//">Creamery</a> ice cream.)sarahverahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03700498869912310731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-75913525559703862442011-10-03T10:08:00.005-06:002011-10-03T12:19:36.808-06:00Here you are...<div>Another week of dinners from the Morin home just for you:<br /><br />*Monday: Leftovers--I feel like we ate ALL WEEKEND LONG, but it was such a fun few days. Thanks to the Wilkinsons for driving here to play with us!<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Tuesday: <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/2010/09/beef-chili-sour-cream-and-cheddar-biscuits/">Chili and Sour Cream & Cheddar Biscuits</a>. I'm SO excited to make this for the first time this fall! And since I'm in the process (again) of making large batches of babyfood, I'm using lots of squash & yams...I'll probably add some roasted veggies to the recipe. Feel free to join me. ;)<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Wednesday: <a href="http://anythingbutmeatloaf.blogspot.com/2011/05/this-is-beginning.html">Black beans</a> & <a href="http://anythingbutmeatloaf.blogspot.com/2010/04/gals-are-coming-gals-are-coming.html">Rice</a>--I actually didn't end up making these on Sunday because we had so much other food! So tonight we'll load our beans & rice with lots of veggies and some cheese.<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Thursday: Didn't end up making <a href="http://anythingbutmeatloaf.blogspot.com/2010/07/new-week.html">Chicken Enchiladas</a> on Sunday either, so we'll make them tonight. And I can bet that we'll have some leftover beans & rice to go with!<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Friday: <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/chicken-pita-tzatziki-00000000054593/index.html">Chicken Pita with Tzatziki</a> Sauce--I actually bought a large container of Tzatziki at Costco the other day. It was a sample, and it was SO yummy! I've been eating it every day with crackers, veggies, etc. The kids love it too. As soon as it's gone, I'll definitely be making my own!<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Saturday: Leftover night<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Sunday: <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/pasta-fresh-tomato-sauce-00000000015863/index.html">Pasta with fresh Tomato Sauce</a>-Growing up I had pasta most Sunday afternoons. It always seemed to hit the spot, and was so quick and easy to prepare. Now being the Mom, I'm glad I have kids that love pasta, and thankfully, it still 'hits the spot'. ;)<br /></div>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-4528760874100881502011-09-27T09:20:00.004-06:002011-09-28T18:52:25.580-06:00Welcome, Fall.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGbl715uzviCKK6z7G9jLsLyva3QAlac6c8FpwSfDHoffk3d2k1IP9ThnwponKb2vBkbok6sbaS_RboYbVfpiB9saNw_BablJXVTFeO6KRQTKKHqct-Z0TbPb1xFBqE11lZpZADzxsJBU/s1600/021.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGbl715uzviCKK6z7G9jLsLyva3QAlac6c8FpwSfDHoffk3d2k1IP9ThnwponKb2vBkbok6sbaS_RboYbVfpiB9saNw_BablJXVTFeO6KRQTKKHqct-Z0TbPb1xFBqE11lZpZADzxsJBU/s400/021.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657577891623112578" border="0" /></a><br />I'm not trying to hurt the other seasons' feelings, but I just want to wish Fall a happy welcome. We all know it won't last long enough, so let's treat it kindly while it's here. ;)<br /><br />*Tuesday: Homemade Macaroni & Cheese<span style="font-size:85%;"> (see recipe below)</span>--unfortunately my 2 year old learned about Mac & Cheese. For some reason she's starting to request it more and more (why is it cute when she asks for Hummus, but not as cute when it's "mac & cheese!"?). So I'm going to make us both happy. I think I may even experiment and throw some roasted Sweet Potatoes in the casserole. We all love them around here, and it seems like it would add a nice extra flavor to the pasta & cheese. I love finding recipes that don't require meat (I'm not a vegetarian--but we try to eat meat sparingly), but easily fill my family up. This would be one of them.<br /><br />*Wednesday: <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/gkazed-salmon-broccoli-rice-00000000012566/index.html">Glazed Salmon</a> with <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/parmesan-roasted-acorn-squash-00100000066897/index.html">Parmesan Squash wedges</a><br /><br />*Thursday: Leftovers<br /><br />*Friday: Panera Bread--I'm feeling extra lucky these days in the coupon department. We got a flyer in the mail the other day that offered 3 free kids meals at Panera Bread. This happens to be one of my kids' FAVORITE places ever. And since Burke will be working late tonight, I'm making our dinner easy and taking the kids out!<br /><br />*Saturday: Our friends--the Wilkinson's--are coming from Michigan for the weekend. Pretty sure they've never tried Chicago Style Pizza, which means Giordano's is in order...<br /><br />*Sunday: General Conference Breakfast: <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Cinnamon-Rolls-III/Detail.aspx">THESE Cinnamon Rolls</a> and Baked Eggs (the recipe Burke prides himself in being able to make perfectly every time--<span style="font-size:85%;">see recipe below</span>) General Conference Dinner: <a href="http://anythingbutmeatloaf.blogspot.com/2010/07/new-week.html">Chicken Enchiladas</a> with Black Beans, <a href="http://anythingbutmeatloaf.blogspot.com/2010/04/gals-are-coming-gals-are-coming.html">Lime Rice</a> & <a href="http://anythingbutmeatloaf.blogspot.com/2011/01/back-at-it.html">Guacamole</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">HOMEMADE MACARONI & CHEESE<br /><br />-2 c. uncooked elbow macaroni<br />-2 TBSP finely diced onion<br />-1 tsp. salt<br />-1/4 tsp. pepper<br />-3 c. shredded cheddar cheese<br />-1 large sweet potato, diced into small cubes<br />-2 c. thin white sauce*<br /><br />Heat oven to 375*. Cook macaroni as directed on package; till tender. Place sweet potatoes on baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Add salt and pepper. Roast in the oven until tender, about 30 minutes, stirring once. Place half the cooked macaroni in ungreased 2 qt. casserole dish. Sprinkle with half of the onion, sweet potatoes, salt, pepper and cheese; repeat layers. Pour white sauce over all. Cover; bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 15 minutes longer.<br /><br />*White Sauce<br />-1 TBSP butter<br />-1 TBSP flour<br />-1/4 tsp. salt<br />-1/8 tsp. pepper<br />-1 c. milk<br /><br />Melt butter in saucepan over low heat. Blend in flour, salt & pepper. Cook over low heat, stirring until mixture is smooth and bubbly. Remove from heat. Stir in milk. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Boil and stir for 1 minute.<br /><br /><br />BAKED EGGS<br /><br />-1/4 c. butter<br />-18 eggs (beaten)<br />-1 c. sour cream<br />-1 c. milk<br />-2 tsp salt<br />-1/4 c. green onions, chopped<br />-1 c. chopped ham (or bacon, sausage, etc.)<br />-1 c. cheese, grated<br />-1/4 c. green pepper, chopped<br /><br />Preheat oven to 350*. Melt butter in the bottom of a 9x13 pan. Mix all remaining ingredients together in a large bowl. Pour into prepared pan, and bake for 45 minutes.</span>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-52589564113851288142011-09-19T12:23:00.006-06:002011-09-23T09:06:15.600-06:00Sort of giddy around here...<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_w9F1qmeU0GZ7iIF-yLIMfO0ttYF6DqmCogR_RZCwZeXev_E23xjpgWkObWbCyJPe1o1BIKt9objx8rzFIcHPUn5K0kMBX6FHsAmo8AMDdEvnzs1R-Fyx8DNNrODL-3KQdMfC2Fhtc6k/s1600/037.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 295px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_w9F1qmeU0GZ7iIF-yLIMfO0ttYF6DqmCogR_RZCwZeXev_E23xjpgWkObWbCyJPe1o1BIKt9objx8rzFIcHPUn5K0kMBX6FHsAmo8AMDdEvnzs1R-Fyx8DNNrODL-3KQdMfC2Fhtc6k/s400/037.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5655570390402794482" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">*To go with our soup & bread on Thursday, I decided at the last minute to make my first ever <span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/345551/peach-jam">Peach Jam</a></span>. It was SO simple and SO delicious on the warm fresh bread. And it's always fun to bake bread in miniature pans leaving me with a few extra loaves to take to neighbors.<br /></span></div><br /><div>I can't stop smiling when I think of fall being just around the corner. Sorry to you "summer lovers" but I'll take the chill in the air, leaves falling from the trees, sweaters, soup & baking any day of the year. And now, for my "excited it's almost fall" weekly menu:<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Monday: Baked Potatoes (broccoli, corn, cheese, tomatoes, and other yummies on top)<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Tuesday: <a href="http://annies-eats.net/2011/08/25/corn-cakes-with-tomato-avocado-relish/">Corn Cakes</a>--I was instructed to try this recipe "pronto", so here it goes. I'm especially excited about the ripe avocados I found on sale to go on top!<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Wednesday: Had a request for <a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/roasted-sweet-potato-and-spinach-risotto/">THIS</a>, so we'll eat ours with a yummy green salad<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Thursday: Taking dinner to the sweet Ames family--<a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/almost-famous-broccoli-cheddar-soup-recipe/index.html">Broccoli Cheese Soup</a> (also had requests for this...but I've been waiting for it to get a little chilly out...and it finally is!) & <a href="http://anythingbutmeatloaf.blogspot.com/2010/10/another-weekly-menu.html">homemade bread</a> <span style="font-size:85%;">(scroll down this link for the "Lottie Roberts Recipe")<br /><br /></span></div><div> </div><div>*Friday: Headed to MI for the weekend. I'm sure we'll think up some tasty dinner for tonight!</div>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-90598657921684533832011-09-17T11:29:00.004-06:002011-09-17T11:45:15.127-06:00A Saturday Lunch...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ewE9n2Zw5Zh0BDhyphenhyphen6f9csg-RrotI9Af4jomcK2D-EX6SM0yY2FGbhQkiPGqiUNDec_4qNYbyF7vXupqOr22UcAOQkHGhhbKmj-xFBU1oCGQF7X1tjVbQC0PP-vUeYtptUjipqMUny-A/s1600/019.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ewE9n2Zw5Zh0BDhyphenhyphen6f9csg-RrotI9Af4jomcK2D-EX6SM0yY2FGbhQkiPGqiUNDec_4qNYbyF7vXupqOr22UcAOQkHGhhbKmj-xFBU1oCGQF7X1tjVbQC0PP-vUeYtptUjipqMUny-A/s400/019.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653384865866831234" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">My little Ellery really really likes Hummus. So much, that the other day that was her first word spoken at 7:01 am. I picked her up out of bed and with a sleepy voice she said, "hummus breakfast". <span style="font-style: italic;">And</span> she asks for it EVERYDAY for lunch. Since it can be a little pricey, I try to make my own. Today was no exception. It was lunch time, so I made my girl some hummus. For some reason it was extra fun...maybe because it's Saturday, maybe because there are leaves on the ground and the sun is shining outside, or maybe because I let her add the salt and push the button. A perfect lunch for a perfect girl...<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_GVnTgTLQ6qnvJP4CRwpHVzEQd3glpIxRAnms3uOWrteDMDFljXgRdTBmE34N07m89rQlY0ePqn36WFKrHXTVUSbIFtFl63EfKzlOBrb3j9QbNfT99qasTrTmLlsU0ts-eT_ImjqWcy4/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_GVnTgTLQ6qnvJP4CRwpHVzEQd3glpIxRAnms3uOWrteDMDFljXgRdTBmE34N07m89rQlY0ePqn36WFKrHXTVUSbIFtFl63EfKzlOBrb3j9QbNfT99qasTrTmLlsU0ts-eT_ImjqWcy4/s400/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653384858879001170" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">I don't think I have THE BEST recipe yet. But each time I make Hummus it gets better. Today we used:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">-1 can Chickpeas</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">-1/4 cup Tahini (sesame seed paste)</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">-1 roasted Red Pepper (place on rimmed cookie sheet in the oven at 375* for about 20 mins. Rotate pepper every 6 mins. or so until soft and browned on each side)</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">-salt and pepper to taste</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">-lemon juice from 1 lemon</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">-1 garlic clove</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Mix all ingredients in food processor until smooth and creamy.</span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQeA4Vzm4iNmholPyN-sQj3SsqOSMNui3pUUBvObk6u0fo3hVRYubcED9rdrATIIm5-J2cb5Ph-DCBPTk7LfM7-oswOYte-79EcqXdInFGv7DVLs1ntDSDTgWPCPPwIsnbRX2tNpPPSs/s1600/025.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQeA4Vzm4iNmholPyN-sQj3SsqOSMNui3pUUBvObk6u0fo3hVRYubcED9rdrATIIm5-J2cb5Ph-DCBPTk7LfM7-oswOYte-79EcqXdInFGv7DVLs1ntDSDTgWPCPPwIsnbRX2tNpPPSs/s400/025.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653385663858987282" border="0" /></a>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-32906534467937780242011-09-14T15:50:00.000-06:002011-09-14T15:53:51.490-06:00Me AgainHere are a few recipes to share from our last week or so:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.justcookalready.com/2009/06/chicken-pesto-strombolli.html">Chicken Pesto Stromboli</a> - I used a <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Valentinos-Pizza-Crust/Detail.aspx?src=etaf">pizza dough</a> recipe instead of the Rhodes bread loaf. If you try the pizza dough, be sure to brush it with some olive oil and garlic salt (or any other flavors you like) after you've rolled it out. And pesto can be a bit pricey so I usually make it:<br />
<br />
<u>Pesto</u> - Blend parmesan cheese cheese, pine nuts, garlic and olive oil (I use 2 garlic cloves and about a 1/4 cup of each of the others) Add basil (about 2 cups). That's it. Piece of cake.<br />
<br />
<u>Pulled BBQ Chicken</u><br />
<br />
1/4 Cup butter<br />
1/2 Cup brown sugar<br />
1/4 Cup vinegar<br />
2/3 Cup catsup<br />
1/3 Cup water<br />
2T. Soy sauce<br />
2T.Worcestershire sauce<br />
1T. Mustard<br />
1/4 t. Pepper<br />
1 t. Salt<br />
3 breasts shredded chicken<br />
<br />
Melt butter and brown sugar in sauce pan. Add all other ingredients. Pour over chicken in 9x13 pan. Bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes. Serve on buns, in a BBQ chicken salad, or any other concoction; the options are practically endless. <br />
<br />
If you've got a hankering for something sweet I can give you three choices:<br />
1. <a href="http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2011/02/23/chocolate-peanut-butter-squares/">Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares</a><br />
2. <a href="http://www.bhg.com/recipe/desserts/cheesecake-stuffed-peaches/">Cheesecake-Stuffed Peaches</a> <br />
3. <a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/salted-fudge-brownies">Salted Fudge Brownies</a><br />
<br />
Those brownies provided me the perfect exit at a work meeting. Just like they're doing for me now.sarahverahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03700498869912310731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-2637758993181718652011-09-10T14:18:00.010-06:002011-09-14T18:08:02.322-06:00Our eats...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxKybL5752gePpiPYlYVafKO1s7y51e3jDFK1qwzWzwola6rxH4sZUoP76wa7woFiECmf1GRb76XafkQdY_kqTW023AyBt8G58XL02aUTAWti0JlWJJhuggCV3PdfnTP6MV0_nTIvTqJQ/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxKybL5752gePpiPYlYVafKO1s7y51e3jDFK1qwzWzwola6rxH4sZUoP76wa7woFiECmf1GRb76XafkQdY_kqTW023AyBt8G58XL02aUTAWti0JlWJJhuggCV3PdfnTP6MV0_nTIvTqJQ/s400/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652369634062581330" border="0" /></a><br />*Monday: Yesterday ended up being much busier than I anticipated, so I didn't even make dinner! Terrible, I know. So we're going to make our <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/341887/stuffed-shells?czone=food/vegetarian-cnt/vegetarian-favorite-recipes">stuffed shells</a> tonight instead. I'll have a huge green salad to go with mine.<br /><br />*Tuesday: Pesto Pizza with Grilled Onions--we had a super yummy pesto pizza at a restaurant in MI last week. I'm going to recreate (but make it even better) by grilling some sliced onions to go on top of the pizza. I've also been meaning to make a bunch of pesto (and thanks to<a href="http://candlmorin.blogspot.com/2011/09/labor-day-weekend.html"> Laura's reminder</a>), so I'll use <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/homemade-pesto-recipe/index.html">this recipe</a> (and fyi-Pignolis = Pine nuts). Add a few kinds of cheese (along with the pesto and onions) on top of the easiest crust<span style="font-size:85%;"> (see recipe below) </span>and enjoy!<br /><br />*Wednesday: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/317526/tomatoes-stuffed-with-grilled-corn-salad">Tomatoes stuffed with Grilled Corn Salad</a> <span style="font-size:85%;">(see image above)</span> On a night like tonight, I can pretty much guarantee the kids won't be too thrilled about dinner. But I also know Burke would love this recipe, and it's really important to me that my kids try new things. However, I don't like whiny kids at dinner time. So it's common around here for me to modify a recipe to make the kids <span style="font-style: italic;">and</span> adults happy. For instance, tonight's meal, I'll probably serve the kids their Grilled Corn Salad over brown rice (instead of in a tomato). Some kids would love the tomato too, and Elle does on certain days. But usually it's worth it to me to make the kids happy--as long as I'm not making a separate meal.<br /><br />*Thursday: Leftovers<br /><br />*Friday: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/336994/grilled-sweet-potatoes-with-scallions">Grilled Sweet potatoes with Scallions</a> & Trader Joe's Wild Rice (I think Haven will especially enjoy this dinner!)<br /><br />*Saturday: A few weeks ago, we attended an out door story time. Lucky for us they were giving out lots of coupons--one of which was a free kids meal at Qdoba. We ended up with about 6 coupons (I swear I don't even know how that happened). I've only eaten here once or twice and haven't been a big fan, so I guess I'll give it another shot (for the sake of the free meals ;)<br /><br />*Sunday: Leftovers<br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:85%;">FAST AND EASY PIZZA DOUGH<br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">1 T honey</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">1 T oil</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">1 c warm water</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">1 T yeast</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">1/2 t garlic salt</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">2 1/2-3 c flour</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div id="yui_3_2_0_1_1315929777804157"><span style="font-size:85%;">Preheat oven to 475. (If using pizza stone, let heat for at least 30 minutes in the oven before baking pizza.) mix all pizza dough ingredients, except flour, together. Add flour and knead for a bit. Spread onto parchment paper sprinkled with corneal. Let rest for a few minutes to let dough rise a little if you want fluffier crust. Add sauce, toppings, and cheese. Slide onto pizza paddle (or sided cookie sheet) and then slide onto hot stone. Bake about 8 minutes (check after 5 or 6 if stone has been oven for a long time.) Makes 1 large pizza.</span></div><div><br /></div>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-52831402624361415072011-09-07T12:08:00.008-06:002011-09-07T15:34:01.738-06:00Cinnamon Swirl French Toast...<div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwIDaoy_F3Lx5YPkwz3kF1iVFO_XP8L38o6A9dgbtX1REDBb3zhFgsYqsQDS09rSz4yViDOMbx8Nrb94EdGcQUhJGzNXnx5cNoUh5uU1_pxbO42ivdttiaXvsy-MYNBqHC00l6is5TgDA/s1600/011.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; height: 286px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649682189055358450" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwIDaoy_F3Lx5YPkwz3kF1iVFO_XP8L38o6A9dgbtX1REDBb3zhFgsYqsQDS09rSz4yViDOMbx8Nrb94EdGcQUhJGzNXnx5cNoUh5uU1_pxbO42ivdttiaXvsy-MYNBqHC00l6is5TgDA/s400/011.JPG" border="0" /></a>Ever tried <a href="http://www.kneadersbakery.com/">Kneaders'</a> famous french toast & syrup? So sorry if the answer is no, but don't fret! Here are the recipes. And I'll have you know the syrup is good enough to drink--for real (like, I drank some ;). This would be the perfect thing for a delicious <a href="http://lds.org/general-conference?lang=eng">General Conference</a> breakfast in a few weeks...<br /><br /><div> <span style="font-size:85%;">KNEADER'S FRENCH TOAST<br /><br /></span></div><div> </div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">-1 loaf Kneaders Chunky Cinnamon Bread cut in 8 slices (we used Great Harvest Cinnamon Bread)</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">-8 eggs</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">-3 c. milk</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">-1 T. brown sugar</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">-3/4 tsp. salt</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">-1 T. vanilla</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">-2 T. butter</span></div><div> </div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">Butter a 9x13 glass baking dish generously. Place the bread slices flat in the baking dish. Mix all remaining ingredients, reserving the butter, and pour over bread. Cut butter into pieces and dot over the top. Refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight. Bake 45-50 minutes at 350*. Serves 8.<br /><br /></span></div><div> </div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">KNEADER'S CARAMEL SYRUP<br /><br /></span></div><div> </div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">-1 c. brown sugar</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">-1 c. cream</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">-1 c. light corn syrup</span></div><div> </div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">Blend together and heat on stovetop until sugar is smooth and mixture is warm.</span></div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div></div></div>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-43651048360281757932011-09-06T12:55:00.005-06:002011-09-07T17:43:07.892-06:00Busy Week.<div>Because of getting into town late last night from Michigan, and Burke + Haven leaving us this weekend for a Utah getaway (Congrats Aimee + Nathan...we'll be thinking of you!), this week is going to be a little crazy. I feel like I already have a fridge stocked with half eaten meals, and I also have SO much going on right now. So I think we'll have a couple leftover nights, maybe a treat night out with just me and my 2 big kids, and 1 or 2 homemade meals that I've been wanting to make. If you'd like to join in with our craziness, here's the menu:<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Tuesday: Leftover night (delish pizza from a restaurant in MI last night...more about that later)<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Wednesday: Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps - I'm going to marinate my chicken in <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/313815/spicy-asian-dressing">THIS</a> dressing and then cook it on the grill. I will then fill my "lettuce cups" (I like to use Boston leaf) with roasted peppers & onions and my chicken.<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Thursday: Leftovers again<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Friday: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/313833/zucchini-quesadillas?czone=food/produce-guide-cnt/summer-produce-recipes"> Zucchini Quesadillas</a>.....yummmmmm. The kids and I are planning to have a movie night in our tent (camping in the living room, wahoo!). Which means we <span style="font-style: italic;">have</span> to have smores. Since we won't be making a fire, we'll make <a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/golden-grahams-smores-bars/">THESE</a> instead. Almost as good as real camping, right?!<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Saturday: Out to eat with my buddies. I'm SO excited about this date. We don't eat out much, and I think as long as we don't end up at Chick-fil-a, Panda Express or (*gasp*) McDonald's, it's going to be a super fun date--just Ryder, Ellery and me.<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>*Sunday: As a welcome home, we'll have <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/341887/stuffed-shells?czone=food/vegetarian-cnt/vegetarian-favorite-recipes">these</a> yummy <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/341887/stuffed-shells?czone=food/vegetarian-cnt/vegetarian-favorite-recipes">Stuffed Shells</a>. I'm also working on perfecting my peach cobbler crumb topping. I attempted last Sunday and failed miserably. So tonight I'll switch up the filling and make some <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/316493/rhubarb-raspberry-crisp?czone=food/best-grilling-recipes/side-dishes-and-desserts">Strawberry Rhubarb crisp</a>. For the topping I'll mix:<br />- 2 cups granulated brown sugar<br />-1 1/2 cups flour<br />-1 1/2 cups sliced almonds<br />-1 1/2 cups COLD butter<br />-1 tsp cinnamon<br />-1 tsp nutmeg<br />-1 tsp salt<br /></div>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-26382648020788326442011-09-01T17:23:00.006-06:002011-09-01T17:46:12.883-06:00snack time-<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4IJYcoNdfalBVNO5VmGwwSzh866uCAEjq5XJURc0mUoJEiqRO7Zyc_z8vRN_0hlbhbJlrNKIyKqHH0ocsMBqznVtiGfT8Qlbm5AAU4-FjQY33bBMTHL3dy94AeNhMkx4wBGQAs-SSm7A/s1600/025.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 326px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4IJYcoNdfalBVNO5VmGwwSzh866uCAEjq5XJURc0mUoJEiqRO7Zyc_z8vRN_0hlbhbJlrNKIyKqHH0ocsMBqznVtiGfT8Qlbm5AAU4-FjQY33bBMTHL3dy94AeNhMkx4wBGQAs-SSm7A/s400/025.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647541453917698290" border="0" /></a>
<br />About 3 years ago, I bought a package of <a href="http://www.quakeroats.com/products/other-products/granola-bites/chocolate.aspx">these</a> Quaker granola bites from Costco. The box has remained in our cupboard, holding granola bars, raisin boxes and crackers over the years. Ryder frequently sees the box and asks if we can buy the granola bites again "some day". I haven't seen them in stores since then (not that I've looked real hard), so to <span style="font-style: italic;">finally</span> make my boy happy, I decided to make them myself. Actually it was quite an enjoyable activity, while the 2 girls slept (for 3.5 hours each!), Ryder and I created our own recipe including all things yummy. Our final product tastes MUCH better than the store bought version and has all natural ingredients (that is, if you count chocolate chips as "natural"). Here's the recipe:
<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">SALEM & RYDER'S PEANUT BUTTER BALLS</span>
<br />
<br />-1/2 c. peanut butter
<br />-1/3 c. honey
<br />-2 TBSP butter
<br />-1 tsp. vanilla
<br />-1 c. oats
<br />-1 c. mixture of chopped nuts (we used peanuts & almonds), wheat germ, flax seed meal & coconut
<br />-1/2 c. chocolate chips or dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, etc.)
<br />
<br />Mix first 3 ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat on the stove. Once incorporated/melted, add vanilla.
<br />Remove from heat and add remainder of ingredients. Roll into balls (or use a small ice cream scoop), and place on a wax paper lined cookie sheet. Place in the refrigerator until chilled/solid. Then enjoy!
<br />*These also freeze really well. I actually made some individual bags of them for Burke to grab in the mornings as breakfast, or a snack for during the day.</span>
<br />Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-86957153830256774062011-08-31T21:28:00.001-06:002011-09-01T17:46:56.757-06:00Over at the Vera'sA few good recipes I've used this week:
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<br /></div><div>I tried my hand at <a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/minnys-chocolate-pie">Minny's chocolate pie</a> which may have been more fun than it was tasty. (It was a little too rich for my taste.) Though I must say, the sliver of a piece that was left over the next morning really hit the spot. I used <a href="http://www.joythebaker.com/blog/2011/08/peach-blueberry-pie/">this recipe</a> for the crust.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>Sunday we had <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/almost-famous-broccoli-cheddar-soup-recipe/index.html">broccoli cheese soup</a> with homemade bread (I used the recipe at the bottom of <a href="http://anythingbutmeatloaf.blogspot.com/2010/10/another-weekly-menu.html">this post</a>.)</div><div>
<br /></div><div>Monday I made <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/2008/11/chickpea-salad-with-roasted-red-peppers/">this salad</a>, roasted vegetables, and a green salad. It was kind of a random meal, but we were craving something light and this hit the spot; I definitely recommend it. If you want to make it heartier you could add some grilled chicken, orzo pasta, or anything really. And can I just say, roasting red peppers is probably the most fun I've had in the kitchen in a long time. I felt like I was doing a science experiment. If you try this recipe, definitely roast your own peppers.</div>sarahverahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03700498869912310731noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319478979694609323.post-82710396814444449902011-08-29T08:47:00.004-06:002011-09-01T17:23:17.131-06:00This week...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhetJctE9oT1o2-JhVq6F9jMUTk6TA94rtGk01xo3qWEsAeOut1_NGD9xFzEbqW-8PXNX4aFt1ZMcAO11XtGwb6lrHlYWUm3yDl06-lnczl0zRXS04JbU91lu6uetSgW0QU5GQTYl5euQk/s1600/035.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhetJctE9oT1o2-JhVq6F9jMUTk6TA94rtGk01xo3qWEsAeOut1_NGD9xFzEbqW-8PXNX4aFt1ZMcAO11XtGwb6lrHlYWUm3yDl06-lnczl0zRXS04JbU91lu6uetSgW0QU5GQTYl5euQk/s400/035.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647535726193822738" border="0" /></a>
<br /><div>...we're eating:
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<br /></div><div> </div><div>*Monday: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/312662/shells-with-grilled-chicken-and-mozzarel?czone=food/dinner-tonight-center/dinner-tonight-main-courses">Shells with Grilled Chicken & Mozzarella</a> Mondays are interesting these days because we now have soccer practice right at dinner time. I try to have it ready for Ryder to eat before we go, and I take a little picnic for Ellery, me and Haven to eat while we watch him play.
<br />
<br /></div><div> </div><div>*Tuesday: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/341260/turkey-taco-salad?czone=food/dinner-tonight-center/dinner-tonight-main-courses">Taco Salad</a> & watermelon (summer can't officially be over until we've had this meal, right?)
<br />
<br /></div><div> </div><div>*Wednesday: I've been wanting a good Panzanella lately. I love throwing a bunch of my favorite veggies in a bowl with some good crusty bread. I'll make one similar to <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/2008/09/summers-last-hurrah-panzanella/">THIS</a> one. But you can really add whatever you like.
<br />
<br /></div><div> </div><div>*Thursday: Baked Potatoes (with all the fixins')
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<br /></div><div> </div><div>*Friday: We're headed to Michigan for Labor Day weekend! But if I were staying here, I would probably make <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/grilled-chicken-recipes#slide_10">Grilled Barbecued Chicken</a> with <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/319260/corn-and-radish-salad">Corn & Radish Salad</a> and <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/oatmeal-peanut-butter-cookies/detail.aspx">THESE</a> cookies (I admit, I made them last week as a celebration on the first day of school--quite possibly the BEST cookies I've ever made. I added some vanilla & chocolate chips to mine.)</div><div> </div><div> </div>Salemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11743150134314998725noreply@blogger.com0