Chili-Infused Oil

Chili-Infused Oil

1/2 C olive oil
1 tsp dried crushed red pepper

In a small, heavy saucepan, heat the oil and red pepper flakes over a low flame, stirring occasionally, until a thermometer inserted into the oil registers 180 degrees, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature, about 2 hours. Transfer oil and pepper flakes to a 4-ounce bottle or other small container and seal the lid. Refrigerate. Can be used as a dipping oil for breads, or to liven up the flavors in other dishes-as your cooking oil, in salad dressing, or just drizzled over grilled fish or meat. Keeps in the fridge for a month.

Little Peach Cakes

Little Peach Cakes

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2 Wilton Mini Ball Pans
1/2 Duncan Hines Yellow cake mix, 1/4 cup butter, 2 eggs, 1/3 cup milk
red liquid food coloring
yellow liquid food coloring
3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
1 cinnamon stick
6-12 fresh peppermint leaves
12 whole almonds
One batch Buttercream Frosting

Ice cream or sorbet, optional
Raspberry sauce, optional

How to Make and Assemble:

You will only need 1/2 of a Duncan Hines yellow cake mix to make 6 Peach Cakes. Mix according to package directions- 1/2 cake mix with 1/4 cup softened butter, 2 eggs, 1/3 cup milk, and 12 drops yellow food coloring. Divide evenly among the 12 greased mini rounds- about +1/4 cup batter. Bake in 350 degree oven for 8-10 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Let cool 2 minutes in pan then remove to wire rack. If you have one pan this can be done in two shifts!

While cakes are baking make the buttercream frosting and add about 12 drops of yellow food coloring to get a bright yellow. Set aside.

In two separate lidded containers, add 1/2 cup sugar and 12 drops yellow food coloring to one and 1/4 cup sugar and 6 drops red food coloring to the other. Cover each container and shake vigorously until the coloring is fully incorporated. Let the children do this! If there is clumping, break up with a fork and continue shaking. You should have a lovely bright yellow and a nice deep pink. You will have leftovers.

sugars

Break the cinnamon stick into small stems by taking a pair of scissors and placing the point into the hollow center of the stick and cutting. You will get both big and small bits, use the prettier pieces.

Frost the flat side of six mini rounds, being sure to get the frosting very think along one edge. Place another mini round on the frosting and press together forming a peach. Run your finger or a small spoon along the frosting to make an indentation that mimics the crease on a peach.

another peach

Dip each “cheek” of the peach into the pink sugar. I am calling each “fleshy” side of the thick portion of frosting the cheek. Then roll the rest of the peach in the yellow sugar without covering the pink portion. Roll the frosting portion in the yellow sugar as well.  At the top of each peach, place a piece of cinnamon stick and a peppermint leaf. Arrange in a pretty bowl or on a platter. Decorate with more mint sprigs if desired.

Fried Polenta

Fried Polenta

FJIHTJ7HH2VWC9E_LARGE6 C water
2 tsp salt
1 3/4 C yellow cornmeal
3 T. unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 tsp plus 1/2 C olive oil
1/4 C freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tsp salt
1 C marinara sauce

In a large, heavy saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the salt, then gradually whisk in the cornmeal. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and the cornmeal is tender, about 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter. Coat an 11×7″ baking dish with 1 tsp. of oil. Transfer the hot polenta to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly to 3/4″ thick. Cover and refrigerate until cold and firm, about 2 hours. Preheat the oven to 250. Cut the polenta into 2×1″ pieces. In a large, heavy skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over a medium-high flame. Working in batches, fry the polenta pieces until golden brown on all sides, about 3 minutes per side. Using tongs, transfer the polenta pieces to paper towels and drain. Place the polenta pieces on a baking sheet and keep warm in the oven while cooking the remaining batches. Transfer the polenta pieces to a serving platter. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and salt, and serve, with marinara sauce alongside.

Glazed Zucchini

Glazed Zucchini

two zucchini with water drops isolated on white

2 pounds medium zucchini (1/2-3/4 inch thick and 5-6 inches long)
2 T. olive oil
2 garlic cloves
Salt
About 1/4 C water
1 T. thinly sliced fresh basil

Trim the ends of the zucchini. Soak it in a large bowl of cold water for 30 minutes to freshen. Drain the zucchini and pat dry. Cut it lengthwise in half, then crosswise into quarters. In a large skillet, combine the zucchini, oil, garlic, 1 tsp. salt and just enough water to cover the bottom of the pan. Cover and cook over medium heat until the zucchini begins to soften, 5-7 minutes. Remove the lid, raise the heat to high and cook, stirring, until the liquid evaporates and the zucchini is glazed with the oil and beginning to brown lightly. Remove the garlic cloves. Carefully stir in the basil and more salt to taste, and serve.

Savory Butternut Squash with Onion & Pecans

Savory Butternut Squash with Onion & Pecans

2848961 C. chopped pecans
2 slices bacon
2 tsp. butter
1 tsp. olive oil
1 1/2 C. chopped yellow onions
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp. ground sage
2 lbs butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
3 T. chopped fresh basil
2 T. freshly grated parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place the chopped pecans in an even layer on ungreased non-stick baking sheet; bake at 350 degrees F for 7 minutes. While pecans are toasting, cook the bacon in a large, heavy skillet until it is crisp; remove bacon, crumble it, and set aside. Add the butter and oil to the bacon drippings and stir in the onion and garlic, cook over low heat until tender, about 15 minutes; stir in the ground sage. Add the cubed squash, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender but not mushy, about 15 minutes; season to taste with salt and pepper. Add half of the toasted pecans and the basil and stir carefully to mix well (avoid breaking up the squash). Place in a serving dish and sprinkle with crumbled bacon, remaining pecans, and Parmesan, and serve. Note: crumbled Gorgonzola is also good in place of the Parmesan!

15 Ways to Doctor a Jar of Salsa – Add Interest to your Dish

15 Ways to Doctor a Jar of Salsa – Add Interest to your Dish

Add avocado cubes, chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Stir in mango chunks, chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice

Fold in a small can of drained, crushed pineapple and fresh cilantro

Marinate chunks of white Mexican cheese in salsa; serve with toothpicks

Stir in a small can of drained corn

Combine with drained and rinsed canned black beans and drained canned yellow corn.

Add chopped jicama, shredded carrot and chopped fresh ginger.

Stir in a chopped fresh, vine ripe tomato.

Mix shredded radish and pinch of ground cumin with the salsa.

Add chopped canned tomatillos.

Stir in a chopped, soaked chipotle pepper.

Ass 1 tsp. prepared horseradish and fresh lemon juice; serve with shrimp.

Mix in chopped roasted red peppers, a dash of balsamic vinegar and chopped fresh basil.

Ass a couple T. plain yogurt, chopped cucumber and cumin seed. Serve with toasted pita bread wedges.

Fold in shredded carrot, a dash of fish sauce, a squeeze of lime juice and chopped fresh Jalapeño pepper to taste. Serve with crackers.

Corned Beef Pretzel Sliders

Corned Beef Pretzel Sliders

sliders4 pretzel slider buns, recipe here
2 cups shredded or sliced corned beef
2-3 slices Swiss cheese
1/2 cup mayo
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine mayo, ketchup, and mustard in a small bowl and mix well. Slice slider buns open and spread both sides with sauce. Layer on corned beef. Top with Swiss cheese, covering beef (1 slice will be too big for 1 slider, so cut in half or fourths to get just enough to cover the corned beef). Place assembled sandwiches in a baking dish with sides (a square Pyrex pan or even a cake pan will work well) and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15 minutes. Remove and serve!

Cream Cheese 15 Ways – Add Some Interest to Your Spread

Cream Cheese 15 Ways – Add Some Interest to Your Spread

-Blend 1/4 C store bought pesto with cream cheese. Top it with lightly toasted pine nuts.

-Blend 1/4 C pitted kalamata olives into the cream cheese. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.

-Blend 1/4 C chopped, oil-packed, sun dried tomatoes into the cream cheese. Sprinkle 1 T. of chopped fresh basil over the top.

-Blend a jar of chopped marinated artichokes into the cream cheese and spread this on pumpernickel or rye bread.

-Drain a small can of tiny shrimp and blend them into the cream cheese. Season with a pinch of ground mace or nutmeg and sprinkle with 1 T. of minced red onion. Spread on bagel chips.

-Blend a can of drained chopped chiles, 1/2 C. of shredded Cheddar cheese, and a pinch of cumin into the cream cheese.

-Blend 2 ounces of smoked trout and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice into the cream cheese. Garnish with 1 T. of chopped fresh parsley.

-Blend 1 clove of garlic that you have crushed in a garlic press, 1 tsp. of herbes de Provence, and a pinch of black pepper into the cream cheese for a homemade Boursin-style cheese.

-Blend 1 small can of deviled ham and 1 tsp. Dijon mustard into the cream cheese.

-Blend 1/4 C. of chopped radishes and some black pepper into the cream cheese.

-Blend 1/4 C. of finely chopped honey-roasted almonds and a dash of hot pepper sauce into the cream cheese.

-Spread the top of the cream cheese with 1/2 C. of chutney. Sprinkle with toasted sliced almonds.

-Cover the cream cheese with 1/2 C. of whole-berry cranberry sauce.

-The classic-spread the top of the cream cheese with 1/2 C. of top-quality pepper jelly. Let it drip down the sides.

Savory Scones with Gruyere, Prosciutto and Green Onion

Savory Scones with Gruyere, Prosciutto and Green Onion

savoryscones2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup butter
2 large eggs
2/3 cup buttermilk
2/3 cup grated gruyere
1/2 cup chopped prosciutto
1/4 cup grated parmesan
1/4 cup chopped green onion
2 tablespoons half and half
Sea salt
Additional parmesan for sprinkling

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Using a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the flour mixture, until you have coarse crumbs. This can also be done with two knives or a food processor. Whisk the eggs lightly and combine with the buttermilk. Add to the flour mixture and stir until just moist. In a small bowl, mix together the gruyere, prosciutto, parmesan and green onion. Add this to the batter, then mix lightly. The dough will be sticky. On a lightly floured surface, turn the sticky dough out and knead lightly until all the cheese, prosciutto and green onion are incorporated into the dough. Roll the dough 3/4 inch thick. Cut out 3 inch squares, then cut diagonally to make triangles. You should have about 10 scones. Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone mat, and lightly brush with half and half. Sprinkle with sea salt. Place the scones in the freezer for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Once the scones are chilled, bake for 20 minutes, or until golden. Sprinkle with additional parmesan cheese and serve warm.

Mac & Cheese 15 Ways – Add Some Interest to your Dish

Mac & Cheese 15 Ways – Add Some Interest to your Dish

-Stir in 1 C. of chopped ham

-Add 1/2 C. frozen peas or chopped broccoli (and 1/2 C. chopped ham, too, if it’s in the fridge)

-Drain a small can of sliced mushrooms and fold them into the macaroni & cheese

-Add 1 C. chopped fresh, ripe tomatoes and 1 T. minced basil

-Stir in 1/2 C. of drained flaked tuna plus 1 tsp. of drained capers

-Fold in 1/2 C. of smoked salmon strips

-Add 1/2 C. cooked cauliflower florets and a dash of ground nutmeg

-Top each serving with a spoonful of fresh spinach that has been briefly sautéed.

-Add 1 C. of browned ground beef that you have lightly seasoned with salt and black pepper

-Sauté 2 sliced garlic cloves briefly in melted butter and fold these into the macaroni & cheese

-Stir in 1 C. of drained canned white beans, then season the macaroni & cheese with a little dried thyme

-Spoon the macaroni and cheese into a serving bowl and top it with strips of grilled sausage.

-Toss a C. of toasted bread crumbs in olive oil, run these under the broiler, then sprinkle them on top of the macaroni & cheese.

-Stir in 1/2 C. of sautéed shrimp and a dash of Cajun seasoning.

-Sauté some thin slices of red bell pepper briefly in olive oil, then stir them into the macaroni & cheese

Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Mushroom Asiago Chicken

195b738f9701eef4cbb8249c88eb85148 l.b Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Halves, 2 large
2 T. Butter
2 T. Olive Oil, divided
2 cups Mushrooms, cut in half
1 clove Garlic, minced
3 Springs Fresh Thyme
1½ cups Dry White Wine
½ cup Seasoned Flour, see below
½ cup Heavy Cream
¼-½ cup Shredded Asiago Cheese
½ tsp Salt, or to taste
¼ tsp Pepper, or to taste

½ cup All-purpose Flour
1 tsp Salt
½ tsp Black Pepper

Pound chicken breast with a meat mallet between 2 sheets of waxed paper or heavy plastic wrap until meat is uniform thickness, about 1/4-inch. Cut into serving-sized pieces (2 or 3 pieces per breast.) Heat the butter with 1 T. of the olive oil in a deep, heavy skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Dredge chicken in seasoned flour. Add to hot oil/butter in skillet. Sauté until golden on each side, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pan. Add remaining olive oil to hot skillet. Sauté mushrooms and garlic until mushrooms begin to brown. Carefully add white wine to skillet, scraping up all the browned bits that are at the bottom of the pan. (This is called “deglazing.”) Bruise the fresh thyme by twisting it between your fingers or hitting it with the dull side of a knife in a few places. Add thyme to the mushroom/wine mixture in pan. Add the chicken back to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Remove chicken from pan. Add the cream and heat through. Add the asiago cheese (if you like it strongly flavored, use 1/2 cup; not as strongly flavored, use the 1/4 cup–asiago is a powerful cheese and you can even use less for just a whisper of flavor. I like it strong, so I use 1/2 cup.) Cook, stirring constantly over low heat until cheese melts. Continue cooking until sauce is reduced by about 1/2. If you wish to skip the reduction step, you may thicken the sauce slightly with about 1 T. instant flour or 1 T. cornstarch mixed with 2 T. water. However, the reduction will taste better. Add chicken back to pan and heat through.

Garnish with sprigs of fresh thyme. May be served over any pasta.

Cooked Rice 15 Ways – Add some Interest to Your Dish

Cooked Rice 15 Ways – Add some Interest to Your Dish

-Stir a handful of finely chopped fresh parsley into the rice

-Add 1 T. of fresh lemon juice and 1 tsp. grated lemon zest

-Pour in 1/4 C. heavy cream, add 1/2 C. of grated Parmesan cheese, then stir the rice slowly over low heat for a time-pressed person’s risotto

-Sauté sliced fresh mushrooms in butter and toss them with the rice.

-Toss some melted butter, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a spoonful or so of drained capers with the rice

-Add sautéed minced onion and cooked peas to the rice

-Stir in chicken stock to moisten the rice, then add currants and sliced toasted almonds. Reheat the rice before serving.

-Toss the rice with garlic slices you have browned in butter

-Mince a scallion and some fresh parsley. Reheat the rice with butter and salt, then fold in the minced scallion and parsley

-Toss the rice with drained canned corn kernels, the kind that come with diced red and green peppers, then reheat it

-Warm 2 tsp. of curry powder in 1 T. of butter in a small skillet for 1 minute, then transfer the rice to the skillet and reheat it.

-Reheat the rice, then fold in toasted sesame seeds, a dash each of soy sauce and Asian sesame oil, and minced scallion

-Add minced onion and chopped tomato that have been lightly sautéed in olive oil with a dash of saffron or turmeric

-Brown some mild Italian sausage, toss in some fennel seeds, and stir in the rice. Add enough stock to make the rice moist.

-Sauté a 1/4 C. each of chopped onion and bell pepper in 1 T. of olive oil, and stir in 1 C. of rice. Season the rice with salt and black pepper, then pour in 4 lightly beaten eggs. Stir and cook, adding 1/2 C. shredded Monterey Jack cheese at the last minute so it melts

My Mom’s English Muffin Bread

My Mom’s English Muffin Bread

embread5 1/2 cups warm water
3 packages RAPID RISE yeast
2 Tablespoons salt
3 Tablespoons sugar
11 cups flour (I used bread flour, but my Mom always used All-Purpose)

Mix altogether, then spoon into (4) well-greased loaf pans. Let rise in pans until dough reaches the top of the pans, and bake in 350 degree oven for 45 minutes or until golden brown. (My oven runs a little hot so I ended up cooking mine for a total of 35 minutes. Just keep an eye on it. You’re looking for golden brown.) 10 minutes before done, brush with melted butter. Makes 4 loaves. Bread will be moist at first. Allow to COOL COMPLETELY before cutting. Makes terrific toast.

Ham, Leek & Gruyere Baked Egg Cup

Ham, Leek & Gruyere Baked Egg Cup

2057wfd_gruyerefinal_dms2 tablespoons butter
2 leeks, green and white parts cleaned and thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
2 sprigs thyme, leaves removed
2 tablespoons flour
1 1/2 cups chicken stock
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Nonstick cooking spray
6 thin slices deli ham or prosciutto
1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
6 eggs

Preheat oven to 375ºF. In a medium-size skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the leeks, garlic and thyme to the pan, and sauté 5-6 minutes, until very soft. Sprinkle the flour over the veggies and cook about a minute. Whisk in the stock and bring up to a bubble to thicken the mixture up. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and reserve. While the leeks are cooking, spray the insides of a 6-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray. Line each cup with a slice of ham or prosciutto folded in half. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the cooked leeks into each lined cup and top with a little shredded cheese. Press the leeks and cheese down a little with your finger to make room, then crack an egg into each one, making sure it stays whole (if you’re worried about breaking the egg yolk, crack the egg into a small bowl first, then pour it in the muffin cup). Season the tops of the eggs with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and place the muffin tin on a baking sheet. Transfer sheet to the oven and bake 15 minutes, until the eggs set. Remove tin from the oven and allow the baked eggs to cool in the muffin cups for a couple of minutes before removing them from the pan. Serve a green salad alongside.

Pear Fritters

Pear Fritters

Screen%20Shot%202013-09-17%20at%201_09_59%20PM1 egg, beaten
1/2 C. milk
2 tsp. sugar
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 C. self-rising flour
1 C. sour cream
1/4 C. vegetable oil
3 pears, peeled, cored and sliced horizontally

Combine the beaten egg, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Mix well and add sour cream. Heat 2 tablespoons oil to 375 degrees. Dip pears in batter, carefully place in oil, and cook 1-2 minutes. Turn and cook 1-2 minutes more. Add oil as needed. Remove fritters and drain. May be sprinkled with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar. Serve warm.

Peas & Carrots

Peas & Carrots

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2 tablespoons butter
4 big carrots, cut into small dice
16 ounces frozen peas
Salt and pepper
Fresh basil leaves, chopped

Melt the butter in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the carrots and sauté until they are tender. Add the peas and salt and pepper to taste and sauté until they are thawed and cooked through. Stir in the chopped basil before serving.

The Ultimate Roast Chicken Provencal

The Ultimate Roast Chicken Provencal

tu1a06_ultimate_roast_chicken_jpg_rend_sni12col_landscapeHerb Paste
Leaves from 1 bunch of fresh flat-leaf parsley
Leaves from 1/4 bunch of fresh thyme
Leaves from 1 bunch of fresh tarragon
4 garlic cloves
1/4 C. EVOO
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 (3.5 pound) chicken
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 lemon, cut in half, plus 1/2 lemon sliced paper thin
3 big tomatoes, cut into wedges
4 small zucchini, cut into 1/2″ thick rounds
1 red onion, thinly sliced
Leaves from 4 fresh thyme sprigs
EVOO

Preheat oven to 400. Throw the parsley, thyme, tarragon, garlic and EVOO in a blender, season well with salt and pepper, and puree to a green paste. Rinse the chicken with cool water inside and out and pat dry with paper towels. Set the chicken on a cutting board, and season the cavity generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the lemon halves into the cavity. Fold the wing tips under the bird and tie the legs together with kitchen string to give it a nice shape while it cooks. Rub the chicken all over with the herb paste so it’s well coated. Put the chicken in a large roasting pan fitted with a rack and scatter the tomatoes, zucchini, onion, lemon slices, and thyme around. Give the vegetables a big, healthy dose of EVOO – 1/4 cup should do it – and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Put the chicken into the oven and roast for 1 hour, then check on it with an instant-read thermometer by popping it into the thickest part of the thigh. When it reads 160, the bird is cooked. Take the pan out of the oven and let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before carving so the juices have a chance to settle into the meat. Serve with the roasted vegetables.

Winter White Lasagna

Winter White Lasagna

2073wfd_whitefinal2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)
2 1/2 pounds sweet Italian chicken sausage, removed from casing
1 pound button mushrooms, sliced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
2 cups chicken stock
A generous dash fresh nutmeg
1 box oven-ready lasagna noodles
4 cups shredded Italian Four Cheese blend

Preheat an oven to 375ºF. Place a large skillet over medium high heat with 2 tablespoons EVOO, about 2 turns of the pan. Add the sausage to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until the meat is crumbled and golden brown, about 10 minutes. Add the mushrooms to the pan and cook until golden brown, 5-6 minutes. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper and reserve. While the meat is browning up, place a large saucepot over medium heat and melt the butter. Sprinkle the flour over the butter and cook it for about 1 minute. Whisk in the milk and chicken stock and bring the sauce up to a bubble. Add in the nutmeg and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then simmer until the sauce thickens, 3-4 minutes. Assemble the lasagna by ladling a small amount (about 1/2 cup, just eyeball it) of the sauce into the bottom of a 13×9″ baking dish. Lay three of the lasagna noodles over the sauce and top them with about 1/3 of the meat-mushroom mixture. Top with about 1 cup of the sauce and about 1 cup of the shredded cheese (about 2 generous handfuls). Make two more layers of the lasagna by laying down three lasagna noodles, about 1/3 of the meat-mushroom mixture, 1 cup of the sauce and about 1 cup shredded cheese for each layer. Top the lasagna off with the last three noodles, the remaining sauce, and the remaining shredded cheese. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake the lasagna for 30 minutes. Remove the foil from the baking dish and bake another 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly.

Red Robin Seasoning

Red Robin Seasoning

RRSeasoning4

3 T. salt
1 T. instant tomato soup mix (Knorr tomato with basil works great)
2 tsp. chili powder
1/4 tsp. ground cumin
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

Combine the ingredients in a small bowl and stir well. Store in a covered container.

Orange Pomegranate Salad

Orange Pomegranate Salad

Pomegranate-Orange-Salad2/3 cup olive oil
1/3 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons honey
Salt and pepper
2 oranges, cut into supremes or 1 can (11 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained
1 pkg. (5 to 6 ounces) arugula or spring mix lettuce
1/4 to 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
1/2 cup goat or feta cheese, crumbled

Add first 3 ingredients to a glass jar with a lid. Add a little salt and pepper. Screw on lid and shake well. Shake dressing well before serving. Put arugula or lettuce in a large bowl. Drizzle a little of the dressing over the salad. Toss to coat. Place on one big platter or individual plates. Top with oranges, pomegranate seeds and cheese.

Extra dressing keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days. To cut an orange into supreme, slice off the top and bottom of the rind. Then remove the rest of the rind, slicing from top to bottom, making sure to remove all the pith but leaving as much fruit as possible. Next, slice through the fruit along either side of each membrane to remove only the fruit sections.

Chang’s Spicy Chicken

Chang’s Spicy Chicken

changs2 tsp. vegetable oil
2 T. chopped garlic (3-4 cloves)
3 T. chopped green onions (about 3 onions)
1 C. pineapple juice
2 T. chili sauce (with garlic will work just as well if you can’t find it plain)
2 T. rice vinegar
4 tsp. granulated sugar
1 tsp. soy sauce
2 T. water
1/2 tsp. cornstarch
1 C. vegetable oil
2 skinless chicken breast fillets
1/3 C. cornstarch

Make the sauce by heating 2 teaspoons vegetable oil in medium saucepan. Sauté the garlic and onion in the oil for just a few seconds, not allowing the ingredients to burn, then quickly add the pineapple juice, followed by chili sauce, vinegar, sugar and soy sauce. Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch in 2 tablespoons water and add it to the other ingredients in the saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil and continue to simmer on medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes or until thick and syrupy. Heat 1 cup vegetable oil in a wok or medium saucepan over medium heat.  While oil heats up, chop chicken breast fillets into bite-size pieces. In a medium bowl, toss chicken pieces with remaining cornstarch until dusted. Sauté coated chicken in the hot oil, stirring occasionally, until light brown. Remove chicken to a rack or paper towels to drain for a moment. Pour chicken into a medium bowl, add sauce and toss well to coat chicken. Serve immediately with rice on the side.

Herb Fritters

Herb Fritters

l_R1797511 C. flour

1 tsp. salt

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 C. cold dark beer

1 C. chopped mixed fresh herbs, such as basil, chives, dill, parsley, rosemary, sage, tarragon and thyme

1/2 C. mayonnaise

Juice and grated peel of 1 lemon

Dash hot pepper sauce

Peanut oil, for frying

 

In a medium bowl, combine the flour and salt. Whisk in the egg and beer until smooth. Stir in the herbs and let stand for 15 minutes. Preheat the oven to 200. Line a baking sheet with paper towels and set aside. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon peel and hot sauce and set aside. Fill a large, heavy saucepan with enough oil to reach a depth of 3 inches; heat to 365 degrees on a deep-fry thermometer. Whisk the batter and, working in batches, drop by tablespoonful and fry, turning occasionally, until the fritters are crisp and golden, 3-4 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to the baking sheet; keep warm in the oven. Repeat with the remaining batter. Serve with the lemon sauce.

Ricotta Pancakes with Pancetta, Peas and Corn

Ricotta Pancakes with Pancetta, Peas and Corn

ricotta5 ounces thick sliced pancetta or bacon, cut into small pieces
1/2 pound fresh green peas, shelled (1/2 cup)
1/2 C. fresh corn kernels
1 T. butter, plus more for frying
Juice of 1 lemon
1 C. ricotta cheese
1 C. plain whole milk yogurt, preferably Greek
2 large eggs
1/2 C. flour

In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fat is rendered, about 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the pancetta to paper towels to drain; reserve the skillet. In the skillet, stir together the peas and corn and 1 tablespoon butter and cook until al dente, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and season with the lemon juice, salt and pepper. Keep warm. In a large bowl, using a fork, mix together the ricotta, yogurt, eggs and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth. Stir in the flour until blended. In a large nonstick skillet or on a griddle, melt 1/2 tablespoon butter. Ladle about 3 tablespoons batter into the skillet for each pancake, spacing evenly. Fry until the bottom is golden, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook until golden on the other side, 1-2 minutes more. Transfer to a baking sheet and keep warm. Repeat with the remaining batter. Serve 2 pancakes per person with the pancetta-vegetable mixture.

Lemon Crumb Bars

Lemon Crumb Bars

exps37583_SD1115455D16A1 pkg. lemon cake mix
1/2 C. cold butter, cubed
1 egg
2 C. crushed saltines (about 60 crackers)
3 egg yolks
1 14oz can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 C. lemon juice

In a large mixing bowl, beat cake mix, butter and egg until crumbly. Stir in cracker crumbs; set aside 2 C. of the mixture for topping. Press remaining mixture into 13×9″ baking dish coated with nonstick cooking spray. Bake at 350 for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
In a small mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks, milk and lemon juice. Pour over crust; sprinkle with reserved crumb mixture. Bake 20-25 minutes longer or until edges are lightly browned. Cool on a wire rack. Store in refrigerator.

Clams in a Light Fennel and Shallot Broth

Clams in a Light Fennel and Shallot Broth

EDOC96251 1/2 pounds (675 g) little neck clams
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large shallot, diced
1 medium fennel bulb, diced
2 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
1 quart (1 liter) chicken stock
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pinch piment d’Espelette
Chives and fresh parsley, to garnish

In a medium pot, combine the clams and 1 cup (250 ml) water. Cover and cook over medium high heat until the clams open, about 5 minutes (depending on their size). Remove the clams from the pot and reserve the liquid. In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shallots and fennel. Cook for 7 minutes until soft and translucent (do not brown). Add the potatoes, chicken stock and reserved clam juice. Bring liquid to a boil, cover pot, and simmer for 15 minutes. Add the parsley, salt and pepper and puree it in a blender. Serve the fennel and shallot cream with the clams and sprinkle a bit of piment d’Espelette on top.

Strawberry Freeze

Strawberry Freeze

1strawberry-lemon-smoothie quart fresh strawberries

2 C. vanilla ice cream, softened

1 3oz pkg strawberry gelatin

1/2 C. boiling water

2 tsp. lemon juice

Serving day: 7UP (2 liters)

Additional strawberries for garnish

In large bowl, mash strawberries and add ice cream. In separate small bowl, dissolve gelatin in the water. Stir in lemon juice. Add to the strawberry mixture and mix well. Freeze mixture in a hard-sided container with lid. Freeze overnight. Serving day: Fill serving glass 1/3-1/2 full with frozen mixture. Add 7UP and stir. Garnish with strawberries and serve.

Pan-Fried Pork Wrapped in Prosciutto

Pan-Fried Pork Wrapped in Prosciutto

IMG_3364One 1½-pound pork tenderloin, cut crosswise into 4 equal pieces
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 thin slices prosciutto di Parma
3 tablespoons olive oil
12 fresh sage leaves
2 tablespoons drained capers
1 tablespoon butter
1 lemon
6 ounces baby spinach leaves, washed, stems removed

Place each piece of pork cut side down between sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or heavy rolling pin, gently pound the pieces of pork until they are flattened into 1/2-inch/1.5-cm-thick escalopes. Sprinkle the pork with salt and pepper. Wrap one slice of prosciutto around the center of each pork escalope. Place a large nonstick sauté pan over a high heat. Once hot, drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the pan and add 2 prosciutto-wrapped pork escalopes. Cook for 2 minutes on each side or until the pork is golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the pork to a plate and repeat with the remaining pork . Do not wipe out the pan. Immediately add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and the sage leaves to the same pan. Cook for 1 minute. Remove the pan from the heat. Add the capers and butter. Grate the lemon zest over the capers. Swirl the pan to melt the butter and combine the flavors. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice into the caper mixture. Stir into the caper mixture any juices that have accumulated on the plate of pork. Season the sauce to taste with salt and pepper. Meanwhile heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a separate large sauté pan over a moderate to high heat. Add the spinach and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Sauté for 2 minutes or until the spinach wilts. Squeeze the excess moisture out of the spinach, if necessary, and divide the spinach among 4 serving plates. Place one pork escalope over each mound of spinach. Pour the caper sauce over the pork escalopes and serve.

Cheddar and Chile Egg Casserole

Cheddar and Chile Egg Casserole

l_R1796513 T. butter, melted
5 large eggs, beaten
1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 C. shredded cheddar cheese
1 4oz can diced green chiles
1/4 C. flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
Salt

Preheat the oven to 350.

Brush an 8-inch square baking dish with 1 tablespoon butter and set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, chiles, flour, baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt and remaining butter. Pour into the prepared dish and bake until set, about 35 minutes.

Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies

Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies

sour-cream-cut-out-cookies-with-cream-cheese-icing-051 C. butter
1/4 tsp. salt
2 C. sugar
1 egg beaten
1 tsp. vanilla
1 C. sour cream
4 1/2 C. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda

Cream together butter, sugar and salt. Add beaten egg. Blend in vanilla and sour cream. Sift together dry ingredients and add to creamed mixture. Refrigerate 1 hour. Roll out dough and cut into desired shapes. Bake at 375 for 9-12 minutes or until edges start to turn golden brown. Cool completely. Frost with your favorite icing.

Which Wine To Use

Which Wine To Use

wines

Fish fillets, shellfish, vegetables Light, crisp whites: dry riesling, muscadet and unoaked sauvignon blanc and chardonnay
Beef or lamb chunks, tuna or salmon steaks Soft, juicy reds such as merlot, syrah, beaujolais and cotes du rhone
Chicken light, crisp whites or soft, juicy reds
Apricots, plums, pears, tropical fruit Sweet whites, such as sweet riesling, white zinfandel, muscat and sauternes
Berries, figs Sweet reds, such as ruby port and port-style zinfandel
Blue Cheese Fortified Liqueur Tawny, Shiraz Cabernet, Shiraz;
Soft, creamy cheese Chardonnay, Cabernet Merlot, Merlot;
Goat’s & Sheep’s Cheese Merlot, Cabernet Merlot, Chardonnay, Shiraz;
Hard Cheese Shiraz Cabernet, cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Shiraz
Italian Cuisine: Cream Sauce Semillon Chardonnay, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir;
Italian Cuisine: Tomato Sauce Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Pinot Noir
Mexican Cuisine: Green Chile Sauce Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay-Riesling;
Mexican Cuisine: red Chile Sauce Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Blends
Asian Cuisine: Chinese & Thai Semillon Chardonnay, Shiraz Cabernet, Cabernet Blends;
Asian Cuisine: Sushi Riesling, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc
Indian Cuisine: Tandoori Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir
Indian Cuisine: Curries Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Noir

wine-and-food-pairing-chart

Bacon Cheeseburger French Pizza

Bacon Cheeseburger French Pizza

132faafbf-0a51-494e-8cc1-825a84ef9f05 loaf (1 pound) unsliced French bread
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 jar (14oz) pizza sauce
1 large tomato, seeded and chopped
8 slices bacon, crisply cooked and crumbled
2 C. finely shredded pizza cheese blend (mozzarella and Cheddar)

Heat oven to 400. Cut bread loaf horizontally in half. Cut bread halves crosswise in half to make 4 pieces (to fit on cookie sheet). Arrange on large ungreased cookie sheet. Cook beef and onion in 10″ skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until beef is brown; drain. Stir in pizza sauce. Spread beef mixture over bread. Sprinkle with tomato, bacon and cheese. Bake 12-15 minutes or until pizza is hot and cheese is melted.

Snickerdoodle Bundt Cake

Snickerdoodle Bundt Cake

Snickerdoodle Bundt Cake

 

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 cup white sugar

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

1 cup white sugar

1 cup light brown sugar

3 eggs, at room temperature

2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup full-fat sour cream, at room temperature

 

In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Mix together really well and set aside.  Preheat oven to 325F. Generously spray a 9 inch Bundt pan with a nonstick baking spray with flour, being careful to cover all the nooks and crannies, as well as the center tube.  If you don’t want to use baking spray with flour, you can just grease the pan with shortening. Gently dust the entire inside of the pan with the sugar and cinnamon mixture. You should only need about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of sugar, but you want to try and evenly coat the inside surface of the pan, including the tube. Save the remaining sugar and cinnamon mixture and set everything aside.  Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside. Beat just the butter on medium speed for one full minute. Add the white sugar and mix for 3 minutes, until light and fluffy. Scrape down the bowl and blade and add the brown sugar. Mix for 2 minutes until the mixture looks light brown and uniform in color. Add the eggs one at a time, beating each for 1 full minute. Stir in the vanilla. Add the flour mixture alternately with the sour cream; beat well.  Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle with 1/4 to 1/3 of a cup of the cinnamon sugar mixture over top the cake. Spread the rest of the batter into the pan and sprinkle any remaining sugar mixture over the top.  Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Easy Juices for a Beginning Juicer

Easy Juices for a Beginning Juicer

Easy Juices for a Beginning Juicer

 

For Green Goddess Juice:

3 stalks of celery

1/2 large cucumber, cut into quarters

1 medium green apple, cut into eighths

1 medium pear, cut into eighths

 

For Ginger Zinger Juice:

2 medium apples, cut into eighths

5 carrots (no need to peel)

1/2 inch fresh ginger

1/4 lemon (remove peel to avoid bitterness)

 

For Tropi-Kale Juice:

1/4 of a fresh pineapple, skin and core removed, and cut into 1” strips

4 kale leaves

1 ripe banana, peeled

 

For Antioxidant Blast Juice:

2 medium beets, cut into quarters and the greens

1 cup blueberries

1 cup halved, hulled strawberries

 

For Immune Booster Juice:

2 oranges, quartered (remove peel for less bitterness)

1/4 lemon (remove peel for less bitterness)

1 medium apple, cut into eighths

1/2” fresh ginger

 

For Not-So-Sour Apple Juice:

2 tart apples, cut into eights

5 kale leaves

 

For Kale Kickstart Juice:

1 orange, quartered (remove the peel for less bitterness)

1 cup halved and hulled strawberries

2 kale leaves

3 carrots

1 ripe banana

 

For Cucumber Cooler Juice:

1/4 ripe cantaloupe, seeds removed, cut into chunks (no need to peel)

2 stalks celery

1/2 cucumber, cut into slices

1/4 lemon (remove peel to reduce bitterness)

 

For All Flavors:

Juice all the ingredients following the instructions for normal juicing in your juicer manual. Drink immediately, or let chill for an hour and then enjoy.

Lemon Chicken Stir-Fry

Lemon Chicken Stir-Fry

21226206-76cf-4218-b72d-fb32fe0ef4ea8oz uncooked capellini (angel hair) pasta
1 T. vegetable oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenders, cut into 1″ pieces
1 medium onion, cut into 8 wedges
2 C. small broccoli flowerets
1/2 C. sugar snap peas
1 C. chicken broth
1 T. chopped fresh or 1 tsp. dried thyme leaves
1 tsp. grated lemon peel
4 tsp. cornstarch
1 1/2 tsp. lemon pepper
1 C. cherry or grape tomatoes, cut in half

Cook and drain pasta as directed on package. While pasta is cooking, heat oil in 12″ skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and onion; stir-fry 5-6 minutes or until chicken is brown.  Add broccoli and peas to chicken mixture. Cook over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until vegetables are crisp-tender. Stir together broth, thyme, lemon peel, cornstarch and lemon pepper in a small bowl; stir into chicken mixture. Cook over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes or until sauce is thickened and vegetables are coated. Stir in tomatoes; cook until thoroughly heated.

Chicken Stew with Pierogies

Chicken Stew with Pierogies

wfd1/2 lb. (about half of a package) smoky, good-quality bacon, chopped into half-inch pieces
3 T. extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), divided plus some for coating the pierogies
3 1/2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs, cut into chunks
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 large onions, chopped
4 carrots, peeled and chopped
5 cloves garlic, smashed and roughly chopped
2 T. flour
2 rounded tablespoons sweet paprika
1 T. cumin
1/2 tsp. dried marjoram
2 bay leaves
1/2 C. white wine
2 1/2 C. chicken stock
1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
4 T. butter
24 potato pierogies
1/2 C. sour cream
1/4 C. chives, chopped
Optional:
1 T. lemon zest
1 T. rosemary, chopped
2 T. parsley, chopped

Place a large pot of water over high heat and bring up to a boil for the pierogies. Place a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat with 1 turn of the pan of EVOO, about 1 tablespoon, add the bacon and cook until brown and crisp, about 2-3 minutes. Season chicken with salt and pepper, add to the pot with the bacon and brown all sides, about 5 minutes. Add onions, carrots and garlic, paprika, cumin, marjoram and bay leaves and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until the veggies are tender. Make a well in the middle of the pan and add 2 tablespoons of EVOO. Add the flour to the EVOO and mix to form a paste. Add the white wine, scrapping up all of the brown bits on the bottom of the pan. Add the chicken stock and tomatoes and cook for about 20 minutes until the stew has thickened. While the stew is cooking, cook the pierogies according to the package in boiling water. Remove from the water, drain and coat lightly with EVOO so they do not stick together. Heat a medium non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, add the butter and cook until butter turns slightly brown and gives off a nutty smell. Make sure not to burn the butter though! Add the cooked pierogies to the pan and cook until slightly browned on both sides, about 1-2 minutes per side. Serve the stew in large bowls with about a tablespoon of sour cream and chopped chives. Or serve the stew with a sprinkle of lemon zest, rosemary and parsley. Place the pierogies on top of the stew and eat.

Instant Pot Corn on the Cob

Instant Pot Corn on the Cob

Instant Pot Corn on the Cob

1-10 ears Corn on the Cob (you can cook just 1, or as many as you can fit in the pot)

 

Cut the ends off of the ears of corn (you can fit more in this way). Shuck it if you want to. Place the trivet in the pot, and pour in 1 1/2 cups of water (2 cups for the 8 qt) Stack the ears of corn in the pot. Close the lid and set the steam release knob to the sealing position. Press the Pressure Cook/Manual button or dial, then the + or – button or dial to select 2 minutes (3 to 4 minutes for unshucked corn).  When the cooking cycle is finished, turn the steam release knob to the Venting position to do a Quick Release of the pressure. When the pin in the lid drops down, open the lid and carefully remove the corn. Slather with butter and sprinkle with salt, and enjoy!

Cuban Barbecued Pork Chops

Cuban Barbecued Pork Chops

1/4 C. Old El Paso taco sauce
1 T. brown sugar
1 T. strong black coffee
1 T. rum
1 tsp. frozen orange juice concentrate
4 (3/4″ thick) boneless pork loin chops

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In small bowl, combine all ingredients except pork chops; mix well. Place pork chops in nonmetal dish or large resealable food storage plastic bag. Pour taco sauce mixture over pork chops; turn to coat. Cover dish or seal bag. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight to marinate. Heat grill. When ready to grill, remove pork chops from marinade; reserve marinade. Place pork chops on gas grill over medium heat or on charcoal grill 4-6 inches from medium coals. Cook 11-13 minutes or until pork is no longer pink in center, turning once and brushing with reserved marinade. Discard any remaining marinade.

Fried Green Tomatoes with Avocados and Poached Eggs

Fried Green Tomatoes with Avocados and Poached Eggs

Fried Green Tomatoes with Avocados and Poached Eggs

 

1 large green tomato

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 large egg

1 tablespoon buttermilk

1 1/2 cups panko Japanese-style breadcrumbs

1/2 – 1 cup olive oil, for frying

For serving

1 medium avocado

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, or more to taste

4 large eggs

 

Prep tomatoes. Trim 1/2-inch from the stem and blossom ends of the tomato and discard. Slice tomato into 1/4-inch thick slices. Season tomato slices on both sides with salt and pepper. Set aside. Prep coating. In a shallow dish or pie pan, add the flour. In a second shallow dish, whisk together the egg and buttermilk until blended. Spread the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish. Coat tomatoes. Working with one tomato slice at a time, dip the tomato slices into the flour to coat evenly, shaking off the excess. Then, dip into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip back onto the dish. Then coat the tomato slices in the panko breadcrumbs, patting firmly to help the breadcrumbs adhere. Cook tomatoes. Heat 1/2 cup oil in a 10-inch non-stick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Working in batches if necessary, carefully place tomatoes into the heated oil in a single layer. Cook until the undersides are golden brown, about 2 minutes. Turn the slices and fry until the other sides are browned, about 2 minutes more, adding more oil to the pan as necessary. Drain the fried tomatoes on paper towels. For serving: Prep avocado. Cut the avocado in half lengthwise around the pit. Twist the avocado halves in opposite directions and pull the halves apart. Remove the pit from the avocado and discard. Scoop out the avocado pulp into a medium bowl and mash it with a fork and some fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Plate tomatoes. Place tomato slices on plates and top with even amounts of avocado mixture. Set aside. Cook eggs. For the eggs, crack the eggs into 4 small ramekins or sauce dishes. In a 12-inch straight-sided skillet, bring 3 inches of water to a simmer. Turn down the heat so that no more bubbles form on the surface. Carefully slide the eggs into the water, evenly spreading the eggs around the pan so they don’t touch each other. Cook eggs, undisturbed, until white is just set and yolk is still runny, 3 to 4 minutes. Use a rubber spatula to gently release eggs from the bottom of pan, if necessary. Using a slotted spoon, remove eggs from water. Blot the bottom of the spoon on a paper towel to remove excess water. Gently place an egg on each tomato slice. Serve immediately.

Thai Chicken Crescent Sandwiches

Thai Chicken Crescent Sandwiches

58162907-32e7-48c4-b7b2-53e658379cc62 T. plain yogurt or sour cream
1 T. peanut butter
2 tsp. curry powder
1 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1 1/2 tsp. soy sauce
1 C. frozen cooked chicken breast, thawed
1 1/2 C. shredded carrots
4oz (1C) shredded hot pepper Monterey Jack cheese
1 (8oz) can Pillsbury Refrigerated Crescent Dinner Rolls
1/2 C. mango chutney

Heat oven to 375. Spray cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray. In large bowl, combine yogurt, peanut butter, curry powder, ginger, garlic powder and soy sauce; mix well. Add chicken, carrots and cheese; mix well. Separate dough into 4 rectangles. Place on cookie sheet. Firmly press perforations to seal. Press each rectangle to form 5″ square. Spoon chicken mixture onto squares. Bring 4 corners of each dough square up over filling; press edges to seal.
Bake at 375 for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Meanwhile, heat chutney in small saucepan over low heat until hot, stirring occasionally. Serve chutney with sandwiches.

Cast Iron Potatoes

Cast Iron Potatoes

Cast Iron Potatoes

 

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 large baking potatoes

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese

Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste

 

Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush bottom and sides of a baking dish or cast iron skillet with olive oil. Using a mandolin or a sharp knife, slice potatoes crosswise into desired thickness. Arrange potato slices vertically and loosely in prepared dish or skillet. Sprinkle garlic and Italian seasoning on top of potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Dot potatoes with butter. Cover skillet or dish with foil and bake for about 1 hour or until potatoes are tender. Remove foil, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes or until crisp.