Rita's Recipes

Easy Baked Fish

2012-03-11T20:52:00.000-04:00

Sit down to dinner in under 30 minutes with

this easy way to make fish in the oven.

I used catfish, but scrod or other mild fish would also work.

Melt the butter in a shallow plate in the oven.

Coat both sides of the fish in the butter.

Sprinkle with lemon juice, salt and pepper.

Top with the crushed Ritz crackers and a little melted butter.

Bake for 20 minutes. Longer for thicker fillets.

A nice buttery crunchy topping.

Easy Baked Fish

1 lb fish fillets, about 4

4 T butter, 1/2 stick

1-2 T lemon juice

salt & pepper

1/2 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed

Put 3 T butter in a shallow baking dish and put it in

the oven as it's preheating to 400.

Rinse the fish and pat dry with a paper towel.

Remove the dish with the melted butter from the

oven and lay the fish on and turn to coat both

sides with butter. Squeeze 1/2 lemon, about

1-2 T juice over the fish. Sprinkle generously with

salt & pepper.Top the fish with the crushed Ritz

crackers and drizzle the top with a the remaining

melted butter. Bake at 400 for about 20-30

minutes, until fish is opaque and

the crumbs are golden.

tip: oven fries or small new potatoes can

bake along with the fish.

Enjoy!

Links: Stone Gable, Funky Junk

Kreppel for Fastnacht!

2012-03-07T17:44:00.000-05:00

I posted about this holiday tradition on my blog

MAY DAYS.

Kreppel are a German yeast doughnut made on

Fastnacht also called Fat Tuesday.

We know it as Mardi Gras.

It's always celebrated on the Tuesday

before Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent.

My plateful of warm Kreppel.

My Aunt and Uncle in Germany sent me pictures

of their Kreppel making day.

They make perfect Kreppel. Years of making them.

Some are filled with jam. All are rolled in sugar.

Ready for family and friends to stop by for coffee.

Now it's my turn to make them.....here goes!

I just made half the recipe.

German Kreppel

4-1/2 C flour

1 pkg yeast

1 stick butter

2 T sugar

1/2 t salt

1/4 t vanilla

2 eggs

3/4 C milk

In mixer, combine the flour, sugar and yeast.

In a saucepan or microwave, melt the butter.

Whisk in the milk, salt, vanilla, and eggs.

Let cool to lukewarm, then add to the mixer.

Mix on low speed until the flour is combined.

Turn the speed up to medium-high and

beat well for about 5 minutes until smooth.

Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm area

for 30 minutes or until doubled.

Remove the dough to a floured surface

and knead briefly.

Roll out to about 3/4" thickness.

Cut into circles using a juice glass dipped in flour.

Place the cut Kreppel on a parchment paper lined

or oiled cookie sheet to keep from sticking.

Cover again with a towel.

Let rise for another 30 minutes.

Ready to cook.

To Cook:
Heat 2" of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan. I use 1/2 Crisco and 1/2 oil.
Test the temperature of the oil with a small scrap of dough. It should sizzle.

Gently add the Kreppel to the hot oil without

them touching each other.

Fry both sides about 1 minute until golden.

Remove with a slotted spoon and place on

paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Roll in a plate of sugar to coat.

Best eaten while still warm.

A great coffee break or breakfast treat.

Enjoy!

Just don't wait for Fastnacht to make them again!

Links: Foodie Friday,
Between Naps On The Porch

Lemonies....The New Brownie!

2012-03-05T15:02:00.000-05:00

Lemonies.....that's the new name I'm giving to

my lemon brownies recipe.

I love the flavor of lemon and if you do too

then you are at the right place!

This is my second most viewed recipe.

I get lots of nice comments and a few emails

like the one below from a gentleman in AZ.

He was kind enough to take the time to send it.

Loved hearing from him and everyone that takes

the time out of their busy day to let me know they

paid me a visit and tried something they liked.

Rita,

Couldn’t figure out how to post this to your blog so I’m doing the next best thing.

Yesterday was my turn to bring something to the Wii bowling league at my senior center. I don’t like the store bought stuff and my lemon tree is full so I looked for a lemon recipe. Your site was the first to pop up and there it was….a recipe for lemon brownies. Although I never heard of this the recipe looked pretty simple, since I’m a novice at the baking routine. So I made them using the 9x13 pan. Much to my surprise the pan was devoured in less than an hour with many wanting your recipe and of course, a few of my lemons off the tree.

I don’t eat sweets just the great breads I bake, but everyone sure enjoyed your recipe.

Thanks for making it so easy.

Regards,

Jim Domschke

Phoenix, AZ

Thanks!

Links: Savvy Southern Style,
No Minimalist Here

A Tale Of Two Dinners-Meatballs & Meatloaf

2012-02-29T14:27:00.001-05:00

You will get two good dinners from this one ground

beef mixture. One for now and

one for the freezer..... you choose.

Meatballs & Meatloaf

2 lbs. ground chuck
1 small Italian sausage, about 3 oz.
Place the beef in a large mixing bowl. Remove the sausage casing and add to the bowl.

1/2 onion, cut up
1 stalk celery, cut up
1 small carrot, cut up
1 garlic clove
1/4 C parsley
2 slices white bread, torn up
In a food processor, add the onion, celery, carrot, garlic and parsley.

Chop until small.

Then add the torn bread pieces.

Pulse a few times to blend in.

Add to the bowl with the meat.

1/4 C ketchup
1 C bread crumbs
1/2 C Parmesan/Romano cheese
1/2 C milk
1/2 t salt
1 egg
Add these ingredients to the bowl. Using your hands, mix until well combined.

Divide the mixture in half.

For the meatballs, roll into 12 smooth round balls.

For the meatloaf, shape into a loaf to fit a 9x5 loaf

pan. Wrap well and freeze.

Date with a label.

Good idea to also tape on the cooking instructions.

To cook the meatballs: Heat a large frying pan
until hot. Add 2 T olive oil and heat 30 seconds.

Add the prepared meatballs and brown.

Gently turn the meatballs, using two spoons
until browned on all sides.

Stir in sauce and let simmer 25-30 minutes.

You can use your favorite spaghetti sauce or

make my sauce by adding:

2 cloves minced garlic stirred into the pan.

then add:

1- 28oz can chopped or crushed tomatoes

1 t Italian herbs

1 t sugar

1/2 t salt

1/4 t red pepper flakes.

Tonights dinner.

Another homemade dinner waiting for you

in the freezer for when you have no time

to cook. You'll like that!

To cook the meatloaf:

Place the thawed meatloaf in a 9x5 loaf pan, cover

the top with 1/4 C ketchup and bake @350 for 1 hour.

Enjoy!

Links: Designs By Golllum,
My 1929 Charmer

My Favorite Waffles

2012-02-14T20:44:00.000-05:00

Make these waffles in any type of waffle maker.

Thick Belgian-style or thinner shaped waffles, like

my heart shaped waffle maker...they are all good.

Serve with fresh strawberries and powdered sugar

or warmed maple syrup....or both.

Mix up the batter and let rest.

Spray and preheat a waffle iron.

Pour 1/3 C batter into the center.

Close and bake until golden.

Keep waffles warm in the oven, along with your

plates while you bake the rest.

One of the things I love about waffles is that

unlike pancakes they freeze beautifully.

I always make the full recipe.

Then I can just pop them in the toaster oven to

reheat and enjoy again.

My Favorite Waffles

2 C flour

2 T sugar

1 T baking powder

1/4 t salt

Whisk together in a large bowl.

~~~~~~~~~~

2 egg yolks

1-3/4 C milk

6 T butter, melted

Whisk together in another bowl,

then combine with the flour mixture.

~~~~~~~~~

2 beaten egg whites

Fold into the combined batter.

Let stand 20-30 minutes.

Pour 1/3 C batter in the center of sprayed and

preheated waffle iron. Close lid and bake until

golden, about 2-3 minutes.

Remove and keep warm on a plate in the oven,

along with your plates while you make the

rest. Freeze any leftover waffles and use

a toaster oven to reheat again.

(tip: If you are in a hurry and do not want

to separate the eggs, you can just beat

the whole eggs until frothy and proceed)

Makes 10 waffles.

Enjoy!

Links: Designs By Gollum

Quick Tomato Soup

2012-02-11T19:24:00.000-05:00

You can have quick homemade tomato soup

for lunch in 15 minutes.

This recipe uses a 28-oz. can of crushed tomatoes.

Serve topped with shredded Parmesan cheese.

Make yourself a grilled cheese sandwich and enjoy!

Quick Tomato Soup

1 T olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1-28 oz. can crushed tomatoes

1 C chicken broth

1 T lemon juice

1/2 t salt

1/2 t sugar

1/4 t pepper

2 T chopped fresh basil

or parsley

2 T butter

(optional 1/2 C cream for creamy tomato soup)

shredded Parmesan cheese for topping

Heat oil in medium saucepan and stir in the garlic.

Heat until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Add the remaining 6 ingredients.
Simmer for 10 minutes.

Stir in the butter and basil until melted.

Add the optional cream if you want a creamy soup.

Heat thoroughly.

Serve sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.

Links: Designs By Gollum

Cranberry Orange Muffins

2012-02-06T17:39:00.000-05:00

This is a nice winter muffin.

Good during Christmas thru Valentine's Day.

I had a bag of cranberries in the freezer.

You'll need 1 cup. Cut them in half.

Ingredients.

I use a microplane to get 1 T of orange zest.

Use your 20% off coupon at BBB and get one.

They are great.

Dry ingredients in one bowl, wet in another.

Combine the two but don't over mix.

Stir in the cranberries.

I'm using heart shaped silicone cupcake molds.

Use your 40% coupon for these at the crafts store.

Spray with Pam before filling.

Not too full (see the line) or they will lose their

heart shape after baking. I sprinkled some of the

tops with cinnamon sugar. The pink ones.

After baking, let cool 5 minutes.

They pop right out of the silicone hearts.

Wash the cups in soapy water or the dishwasher

and use over and over.

I piled mine into a milk glass bowl as

part of my Valentine kitchen decor.

Then I will stack them and store

in a glass container.

The heart shapes were small so I had batter left

to make two jumbo muffins in glass custard cups.

Store some in the freezer.

But be sure to have one still warm from the oven!

Cranberry Orange Muffins

2-1/2 C flour

1 C sugar

2 t baking soda

Combine in a medium bowl

___________

1/2 C butter (1 stick), melted

2 eggs

3/4 C orange juice

1 T grated orange zest

Whisk together.

Stir into dry ingredients and mix just until

combined. Do not over mix.

Stir in:

1 C cranberries, cut in half

Spoon batter into paper-lined muffin tins

Sprinkle the tops of some with:

cinnamon sugar

Bake @350 for 20-25 minutes.

Makes 12-15 muffins

Enjoy!

Go-To Steak Marinade

2012-02-05T13:09:00.000-05:00

When I haven't had time to find the new recipe for

marinade that I wanted to try I rely on this one.

It's a quick and easy marinade that doesn't require

a lot of complicated measuring.
(I'm using a Tupperware bacon keeper here)

Go-To Steak Marinade

It's just equal parts:

olive oil,

balsamic vinegar,

soy sauce,

Worcestershire sauce.

About 1 T each is enough.

Sometimes I add a squirt of

Dijon mustard

and a little garlic powder.

Mix the ingredients and pour over the steak
in a food bag or covered container .

Seal the container and marinade in the fridge

for 2 to 24 hours.

This works well on less expensive cuts, like this sirloin.

Before grilling I season it with a little

pepper, garlic salt or steak seasoning.
Use your favorite here.

Easy-Peasy!

Enjoy!

Bacon, Avocado,Tomato Pasta

2012-01-19T19:26:00.000-05:00

What's for lunch?

Sometimes I just look in the refrigerator to see

what I can pull together for lunch.

Today I found 1/2 of a tomato, 1/2 of an avocado,

a few pieces of bacon, and a little leftover grated cheese.

All I needed to do was cook a little pasta, and

Chop those few ingredients.

The rest of the ingredients I usually have on hand

are: fresh basil from my garden, garlic, lemon juice,

olive oil and s&p. Toss it all together.

Lunch is being served on the patio!

You don't need to follow the recipe exactly.

It's just a guide. Use what you have.

Just add your ingredients and toss.

B-A-T Pasta

2 C uncooked pasta, bow ties

4 slices bacon, cooked crisp

1/2 avocado, cubed

1/2 tomato, cubed

1/2 C shredded Italian cheese,

(Parmesan, Romano, Asiago or a combo)

1-2 cloves of garlic, minced

1/4-1/2 C fresh basil leaves, chopped

2 T lemon juice

Generous amount of salt and pepper to taste

Cook and drain the pasta. Rinse under cold water.

Put into a medium bowl, add other ingredients.

Toss to combine. Two large servings.

Enjoy!

"Ask not what you can do for your country.
Ask what's for lunch." ... Orson Welles

This is similar to my Spinach Pasta Salad with Asiago Cheese
Links: Designs By Gollum

Walkabout Soup

2012-01-15T13:29:00.000-05:00

This is a creamy onion soup that's like the

Walkabout soup served at the Outback.
Perfect soup for a winter day.

It's very easy to prepare. You'll need:

beef bouillon cubes, onions, flour, salt, pepper,

cream, and shredded cheese.

It's been in my recipe basket for over 15 years.

If you can boil water

and slice an onion, you can make this soup.

Bring 8 cups of water and 8 bouillon cubes to a boil.

Add the onions salt and pepper.
Simmer covered for 1 hour.

Then gradually whisk in the flour.

The lumps will dissolve with an additional
30 minutes of cooking.

Whisk until smooth.

Add the cream.

Whisk to blend

Stir in the cheese.

Let simmer another 5-10 minutes.

Serve!

My grandchildren loved this soup.
Just remember to call it

Walkabout Soup and don't mention the onions.

Walkabout Soup

8 C water

8 beef bouillon cubes

3 onions, cut in half and thinly sliced

1 t salt

1 t pepper

3/4 C flour

1 C heavy cream

1 C shredded cheddar cheese

Bring the water and bouillon cubes to a boil.
Stir until dissolved. Add onions, salt and pepper.

Cover and simmer for 1 hour.

While stirring, slowly whisk in the flour.
Simmer covered for another 30 minutes,
whisking occasionally. Lumps will dissolve after
additional cooking Stir in the cream then add
the cheese. Simmer another 5-10 minutes.

Serve with a little cheese sprinkled on top, if desired.

8 servings/200calories

Enjoy!

Links: Between Naps On The Porch,
Designs By Gollum

Baked Cranberry Oatmeal

2012-01-14T19:22:00.001-05:00

This is a warm crumbly oatmeal that's good to serve

on a cold morning. In South Florida that's

anything below 60F!

Flavored with brown sugar, cinnamon and fresh cranberries.

Combine the dry ingredients.

Melt the butter in the baking dish to grease the pan,

then pour into the wet ingredients.

Whisk in the vanilla.

Combine with the dry ingredients and stir in the cranberries.

I made half the recipe and used an 8" square pan.

Bake for 30-40 minutes. Cut unto squares and serve.

Top with warm cream if desired.

If you have leftovers, you can reheat them in the

microwave during the week.

Baked Cranberry Oatmeal

9X13 pan has 6-8 servings

3 C oatmeal

1 C brown sugar

2 t cinnamon

2 t baking powder

pinch salt

combine in a large bowl

in another bowl combine:

2 eggs

1 C milk

1 stick butter, melted

2 t vanilla

whisk together and combine with the

dry ingredients. Stir in

1 C fresh cranberries

Pour into the buttered 9X13 pan

and bake @350 for 30-40 minutes

Cut into large squares and serve with

warm cream if desired.

Enjoy!

Homemade Biscotti

2012-01-11T19:23:00.000-05:00

Biscotti are a twice-baked Italian dipping cookie.

They are wonderful with a latte or cappuccino.

Perfect for dipping into your favorite coffee.

The recipe is similar to mandelbrot or Mandlel Bread

which dates back to early European cultures and

is a popular Jewish treat. Mandel means almonds in

German, so they traditionally have

almonds and almond extract.

Beat sugar and oil in an electric mixer

until sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating until well incorporated.

Gradually add the flour.

Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.

Add the toasted almonds. Toasting brings out

the flavor. I used the toaster oven and bake

for 5 minutes at 350 until fragrant and golden.

You can easily add your own touches.

I used 1/2C almonds and 1/2C

mini chocolate chips.

Spray a large (12X18) sheet pan.

Pour the batter evenly on the pan.

Bake in a 350 oven.

Until golden, about 20 minutes.

Remove from oven and let cool for 7 minutes.

Turn out onto a cutting board.

Slice lengthwise down the middle,

then cut across into 1/2-to 3/4-inch strips

You can also cut lengthwise into thirds

to make smaller pieces.

At this point I store some in the freezer before

the second baking. When I want to serve them I

remove from the freezer and let sit at room

temperature for about 5 minutes then bake on a

cookie sheet at 350 until toasted, about 8 minutes.

Return the cookies to the sheet pan and return to

the 350 oven and bake for 6 minutes then flip.

and bake the other side for another 6 minutes.

Serve for coffee.

Store extra cookies in a large jar.

Biscotti

Almond or Chocolate Chip

1 C sugar

1 C vegetable oil

4 eggs

1-1/2 C flour

2 t vanilla extract

1 t almond extract

1 C toasted almonds

(or 1 C mini chocolate chips or

half of each)

Beat sugar and oil with a mixer until dissolved.

Add eggs one at a time, beating until well mixed.

Gradually add the flour. Stir in the extracts.

Stir in the almonds or mini chips.

Spread onto a sprayed baking sheet (12X18)

Bake at 350 for 20 minutes, until lightly golden.

Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 7 minutes.

Turn onto a cutting board and cut in half lengthwise,

then cut across into 1/2" to 3/4" strips.

Return cookies to the sheet pan and return to

oven to bake another 6 minutes, flip and bake

the other side for another 6 minutes, until golden.

Enjoy!

Links: Designs By Gollum

Marinated Shrimp

2012-01-08T22:30:00.000-05:00

Instead of making the usual shrimp cocktail, try this!

It's a great appetizer.

Serve chilled.

First, boil the shrimp using my easy no-fail recipe.

Cover the shrimp with at least 2 inches of water.

Add vinegar and Old Bay seasoning and salt.

You can add more spices if you like.

Place on high heat and stir occasionally.

When 1 or 2 shrimp float to the top they are done.

The water may not come to a boil.

Immediately pour into a colander to drain
and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking.

Ingredients for the marinade.

Mince the garlic. I used cilantro here,

but you can also use fresh flat leaf parsley, or both.

Combine the marinade/dressing ingredients in a jar.

Shake to blend.

To the shrimp add: sliced celery, chopped green
onions and chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.

Pour the marinade over all and toss well.

Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours.

Sprinkle with additional green onions and parsley.

Set out with toothpicks at a party or serve in small

glass dishes as a dinner appetizer.

Or do what we did tonight and share with a

glass of wine and good warm crusty bread.

Easy No-Fail Shrimp Boil

1 lb large or extra large shrimp

1 T Old bay seasoning

2 T cider vinegar

1 t salt

Add shrimp to pot and add water to cover

the shrimp by 2 inches. Add the Old Bay,

Salt and vinegar. Start cooking on high,

stirring until 1-2 shrimp float to the surface.

(water may not come to a boil)

Drain immediately in a colander and

rinse with cold water to stop the cooking,

Peel and chill.

This method works any amount of shrimp.

Marinade

1/2 t salt

1/2 t paprika

1/4 t sugar

1 T Dijon mustard

1-2 T horseradish

3 T tarragon or basil vinegar

1/3 C olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

Combine all ingredients in a jar and shake.

Enough for 1 lb of shrimp.

Marinated Shrimp

1 lb cooked shrimp

Green onions, chopped, about half a bunch

Celery, thinly sliced or minced, 2-3 stalks

Fresh Parsley or Cilantro, or both chopped

to taste about 1/2 C

Place cooked shrimp in a bowl and add the

celery, green onions and parsley, as much as you

like. Pour over the marinade and toss.

Cover and let marinade at least 4 hours or

overnight in the refrigerator.

Enjoy!

Favorite Pecan Pie

2012-01-02T21:38:00.000-05:00

Pecan pie season is here!

There was a time when I thought I didn't like
pecan pie. What was I thinking?

It's the perfect fall and winter pie.
I make the first one in October.

Pumpkin Pie and Pecan Pie

I make one for Thanksgiving and

another for Christmas. Maybe I'll make one

in January to celebrate the New Year.

I start with a homemade pie crust.

Pour in the filling. I flip any pecans that need to
be turned top-side up.

It can bake along with the pumpkin pie.

My guilty pleasure is having a small slice

with a good cup of coffee the next morning

for breakfast. Even better!

Pecan Pie

3 eggs

2/3 C sugar

dash salt

1 C dark corn syrup

1/3 C butter, melted

1 t vanilla

1 heaping C pecan halves

1 9" unbaked pie shell
(adding 1 T of bourbon is good too)
~~~~~~~~

Beat eggs, sugar, salt, corn syrup,

butter and vanilla. Add pecans.

Pour into pie shell.

I flip the pecans right-side up

Bake @350 for 50-55 minutes or
until knife inserted halfway between
center and edge comes out clean.
Cool. Good served with a scoop
of vanilla ice cream.

Enjoy!

Links: A Stroll Thru Life,
Designs By Gollum

Mushroom Business

2011-12-26T13:09:00.000-05:00

Here's something other than potatoes to serve

along with your roast beef.

This is a savory mushroom strata/bread pudding/
side dish/casserole....a mushroom business.

It's another oldie but goodie recipe from

Peg Bracken's cookbook of 1966.

You can prepare it in the morning or the day before.
Love anything I can make ahead.

Butter 6 slices of bread.

Cut the bread into squares.

Put half the bread into a buttered 8" square casserole.

Slice the mushrooms. I used a little over half of a

1-lb package that I had leftover.

Saute the sliced mushrooms until fragrant,

about 3 minutes.

Add the chopped celery, onions, salt, and pepper.

Stir in the mayonnaise.

Spread this mixture over the bread squares.

Top with the remaining bread.

Slightly beat the 2 eggs and

combine with 1-1/2 C milk.

Pour over the bread.

Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight.

About 1 hour and 15 minutes before you want to

serve it, spread the top with the mushroom soup.

Bake uncovered for 50 minutes at 325.

Remove from oven and sprinkle the top with

cheese. I used Cheddar or a Cheddar/Jack blend.

Whatever you have on hand...Swiss, Parmesan, etc.

Return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes

until nicely puffed. Serve.

Double the recipe and use a 9X13 casserole.

____________________________________________

Mushroom Business

1/2- 1 lb mushrooms, sliced

Butter, about 2 T

1/2 C chopped onions

1/2 C chopped celery

1/2 C mayonnaise

3/4 t salt

1/4 t pepper

2 eggs, lightly beaten

1-1/2 C milk

6 slices white bread

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1/2 C shredded cheese (your choice)

_____________________________________________

Lightly butter the bread slices and cut them into 1-inch squares.

Put half of them (3 slices) into the bottom of a buttered 8" square casserole.

Saute the cut-up mushrooms in a skillet with 1 T butter until fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped onions and celery, salt and pepper.

Then stir in the mayonnaise. Spread this mixture on top of the bread squares.

Top with the remaining bread squares. Pour over this the two eggs

slightly beaten with the 1-1/2 C milk.

Cover and refrigerate at least an hour.

Finally, an hour and 15 minutes before you want to serve it

spread the mushroom soup on top.

Bake uncovered 325 for 50 minutes, then remove from oven and sprinkle

with the cheese.

Return to oven and bake another 10-15 minutes until nicely puffed.

6 servings

Enjoy!

note: The original recipe also had 1/2 C

chopped green pepper.

It's optional. If I have it I use it.

Links: A Stroll Thru Life,
Coastal Charm, Between Naps On The Porch,
Designs By Gollum, Funky Junk

Cream Cheese Ball

2011-12-22T15:22:00.000-05:00

My friend Sheila has been asking me to post my
recipe for the chipped beef cream cheese ball
...so here it is.
This makes one small cheese ball.
It's with pastrami or any chipped beef.

It's nice to set out for a snack.

For a party double the recipe and make one large ball.

Or make two small ones and roll each one into
something different.

I used both green onions with chives from my
garden because that's what I had available.

Combine softened cream cheese, onions,
garlic salt, and W-sauce.

Finely chop the pastrami.
You'll have about 1/2 C.

Stir half into the cheese.

Blend well. Refrigerate until it's
firm enough to shape into a ball.

Roll into the remaining chopped beef.
You can also roll it in chopped pecans.
serve with crackers.

I also like it spread on toasted sourdough
bread for a snack.

Cream Cheese Ball

1 8-oz package cream cheese

2-oz pastrami-about 1/2 C

(1/4 of an 8-oz package)

2 green onions-about 1/4C

1t Worcestershire sauce

1/2 t garlic powder

Soften the cream cheese.

Finely chop the pastrami and green onions.

Combine the cream cheese, half of the chopped pastrami

(about 1/4 C) the green onions, garlic salt, and

Worcestershire sauce until well blended.

Chill until it's firm enough to roll into a ball.

Roll the ball into the remaining chopped

pastrami. You can also roll it into finely

chopped pecans. Make one of each!

Enjoy!

Links: Designs By Gollum

The Breakfast Club

2011-12-19T13:43:00.000-05:00

What are having for breakfast?

Strawberry Puff Pancakes

Oven puffed pancake filled with fresh strawberries,
a sprinkle of lemon juice and dusted with powdered sugar

We usually have one of our favorites.

Swedish Pancakes
Thin crepe-like pancakes sprinkled with lemon juice
and cinnamon or powdered sugar.

Swedish Pancakes with Mini Chocolate Chips
and Fresh Raspberries

Baked Apple Pancake
Oven baked batter with slices of apple and layers of cinnamon,
brown sugar mixture, topped with extra lemon juice.

Tuesday Pancakes
Very light sour cream and cottage cheese pancakes
are topped with raspberry sauce and
a sprinkle of powdered sugar

French Muffin Puffs
Light muffins rolled in butter then cinnamon sugar.

Spinach, Tomato and Cheese Omelete

Puffins
Mini muffins made with pancake batter and
mini chocolate chips, dipped in maple syrup.

Pumpkin Oatmeal
Oatmeal with pumpkin, pumpkin pie spices and brown sugar.

Buenos Dias!
Baked eggs, cottage cheese, Monterey Jack cheese,
green chilies puffed in the oven.

Baked Apple Oatmeal
A hearty combination of oatmeal and chopped apples, are
mixed with cinnamon, brown sugar and milk then baked in the oven.

Cinnamon Roll Swedish Pancakes
Cinnamon roll filling spread onto Swedish pancakes
then rolled and sliced, dust with powdered sugar

My Homemade Granola
Oatmeal, pecans, and almonds, flavored with brown sugar,
honey, vanilla and a touch of cinnamon are baked until crunchy.

Coffee Love

Frothed milk in our coffee....always!

We always have breakfast together.

(Click on any of the blue titles for the recipe.)

Enjoy Your Morning!

Links: Between Naps On The Porch,
A Stroll Thru Life, Funky Junk

Apple Cranberry Crisp

2011-12-12T17:30:00.000-05:00

While this is baking the smell of apples and
cinnamon filling the house are as nice as any of
our other Christmas decorations.

I mixed this up quickly. Much easier than pie.

Apples and cranberries.

Crumbly topping.

Decorated with a ring of cranberries

Bake for 30 minutes at 375.
A nice crunchy topping on warm apples
and cranberries.

A little Christmas cheer with our
afternoon coffee.

Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
Leftovers are also good with breakfast coffee.

Apple Cranberry Crisp

4 large apples

1 C fresh cranberries

plus more for garnish

1 sprinkle flour, about 1T

1 squirt lemon juice, about 1 t

********

Peel, core and slice the apples.
Combine with the cranberries in a large bowl.
Add a squirt of lemon juice and sprinkle with
a little flour. Toss and put into a buttered pie dish.

Topping

1/2 stick butter, melted

1/2 C flour

1/2 C oatmeal

3/4 C brown sugar

1 t cinnamon

1/2 t nutmeg

Combine well with a fork until crumbly.
Sprinkle over the top.

Bake 375 for 30 minutes.

Serve warm with ice cream if desired.

Enjoy!

Links: Savvy Southern Style,
Designs By Gollum

Ice Cream with Kahlua and Toasted Almonds

2011-12-05T10:48:00.000-05:00

This is a wonderful dessert to serve
when you are entertaining.

It so easy to assemble and tastes much more
impressive than it seems. Toast the almonds ahead
of time and you'll have

a dessert that's ready in minutes.

Or just make enough for two and treat yourself!

Here's an ice cream kitchen printable too.
It's from Big D and Me.

For the free printable click HERE

Ice Cream with Kahlua

1 t butter

2 T slivered almonds

2 scoops vanilla ice cream

2 T Kahlua

Melt butter in a small skillet over
medium heat. Add almonds and saute until
lightly browned, 4-5 minutes.

Spoon a scoop of ice cream into wide dessert
glass with footed bottom. Top each scoop with
1 T Kahlua and 1 T almonds.
Makes two servings.

Enjoy!

Links: Designs By Gollum

Seasoned Rice Mix

2011-11-30T18:56:00.000-05:00

Mix up a batch of this seasoned rice mix

for your pantry or as small gifts.

Uncle Ben's and a few seasonings.

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl
and whisk to combine well.

Divide mixture into 3 containers.

Snack size Ziploc bags are a perfect fit.

I formed plastic wrap on the bottom of
a glass before inserting into a mug.
I have lots of Christmas mugs that I pick up
when thrifting. See my collection HERE.

Add directions, and ribbon and it

make a nice little food gift in a Christmas mug.

It can be part of a gift basket,

or just tuck in a check for your Christmas tips

to all the people whose services you have used

throughout the past year; mailman, yardman, salon,

dog groomer etc.

Seasoned Rice Mix

3 C uncooked long-grain rice

Uncle Ben's

1/4 C dried parsley flakes

2 T chicken bouillon granules

2 t onion powder

1/2 t garlic powder

1/4 dried thyme

Stir together all ingredients, mix well.

Place 1 C mixture into 3 airtight containers.
Or store in one large container and scoop out
the amount you need to prepare;
measuring 1 part rice to
2 parts water.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Directions for gift card

Combine 2 C water, 1 T butter and rice mix

in a saucepan and bring to a boil, stir and

cover. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Fluff with fork and serves.

4 servings

Enjoy!

Links: Between Naps On The Porch,
Somewhat Simple

Cinnamon Roll Swedish Pancakes

2011-11-29T18:59:00.000-05:00

I used my Swedish Pancake recipe to make

little mini cinnamon roll pancakes.

After you make the Swedish Pancakes, stack them

and keep them warm in the oven with your plates.

One at a time very lightly brush with melted butter.

Sprinkle with 1 t cinnamon sugar mixture.

Roll up.

Slice and stack on end.

To serve just dust with a little powdered sugar.

You can also drizzle with a little glaze.

We prefer just the powdered sugar.

Serve on the heated plates.

Very yummy!

Cinnamon Roll Swedish Pancakes

Swedish Pancakes (recipe HERE)

2 T melted butter
<>

Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

2 T brown sugar

1 T white sugar

1 t cinnamon
<>

Glaze (optional)

2 T butter

1 T cream cheese

1/2 C powdered sugar

1/4 t vanilla extract

1 T milk or cream
<>

Brush each pancake lightly with melted butter.

Sprinkle with 1 t cinnamon mixture.

Roll and slice into 1" slices.

Serve on heated plates and dust lightly

with powdered sugar.

Enjoy!

Spiced Cranberry Chutney

2011-11-25T12:59:00.001-05:00

You'll love this cranberry chutney on everything.

from turkey, ham, pork, chicken,

on sandwiches and baked brie.

Bake brie in 350 oven until soft, about 8-10 minutes.

spread with cranberry chutney and serve

with crackers or baguette slices.

Also good on cream cheese.

Fresh cranberries and a few basic ingredients.

Combine in a saucepan and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low and cover for 30 minutes.

It will thicken.

Serve at room temperature.

Spicy, tart and sweet. A perfect

condiment for Turkey.

Refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 weeks.

Spiced Cranberry Chutney

1 C cranberries

1/2 C brown sugar

1/4 C cider vinegar

2 T orange juice

1/4 t cinnamon

1/8 t ground cloves

1/8 t ginger

Combine in a saucepan, bring to a boil

then reduce heat to low and cook

covered until thick, about 30 minutes.

Serve at room temperature

or chill up to 2 weeks.

Enjoy!

Links: Stone Gable

Favorite Pumpkin Pie

2011-11-23T21:58:00.001-05:00

My favorite pumpkin pie recipe uses a little more
sugar and cinnamon that most recipes.

It mixes in minutes.

First whisk the 2 eggs in a large bowl.

Then add the remaining ingredients.

Whisk until smooth.

Roll out you pie crust. I always used homemade,

because the crust is a favorite part.

Pour in the filling and bake.

Sometimes...I swirl a little design on top.

Combine 2T sour cream and 1/2T milk in a small

baggie. Snip of a little bit of the corner.

Make a spiral starting in the center, then drag a

skewer through to make a scalloped design.

I didn't do that this time, I just swirled it

randomly. I like the first method better.

By the way, you can't taste the sour cream.

Fill you pie shell and carefully put into a

preheated 400 oven for 50 minutes.

Cool then refrigerate for two hours.

You can make this a day ahead.

with the swirl design

classic-without the swirl

Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

Then ask yourself;

Why don't we make this more often?

Favorite Pumpkin Pie

2 eggs

1 16-oz can pumpkin

1 C sugar

1 12-oz can evaporated milk

(you can also use 1 C heavy cream)

2 t cinnamon

1/4 t ginger

1/4 t nutmeg

1/4 t ground cloves

1/4 t salt

Whisk eggs and then add remaining ingredients.

Combine well and pour into unbaked pie shell,

Bake at 400 for 45-50 minutes until set.

(You can also bake it at 425 for 15 minutes,

then reduce oven temperature to 375 for

40 minutes.) Remove, let cool, then refrigerate

for two hours before cutting

Enjoy!

Links: Designs By Gollum

Corn Souffle Casserole

2011-11-23T09:46:00.000-05:00

This sweet corn casserole is a cross between a souffle and a corn pudding.

It's a favorite side to serve with BBQ ribs or chicken,
baked ham or meatloaf.

Gather the ingredients; 2 cans of corn, butter, eggs,

sugar, sour cream and a box of Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix.

Grease a 2 qt. (round or rectangular) casserole

using the butter wrapper

while you melt the butter in the microwave for 1 minute.

Whisk in all the ingredients adding the

muffin mix last.

Pour into the greased casserole.

Bake in a 350 oven for 1 hour until golden and puffed.

Serve.

This casserole will serve 8-10.

When I make this I freeze dinner-sized

portions for us to have with another dinner.

Corn Souffle Casserole

1 can (15oz) creamed corn

1 can (15oz) whole corn kernels-do not drain

1 stick butter, melted

1 C (8oz) sour cream

2 eggs, slightly beaten

1/4 C sugar

1 box (8oz) Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix

-------------------------

In a large bowl melt the butter in the microwave

for 1 minute. Whisk in the remaining ingredients

adding the muffin mix last. Pour into a greased

2 qt. casserole. Bake @350 for 1 hour
until puffed and golden.
optional: Top with 1 C shredded cheese
Swiss or Cheddar the last 15 minutes.

Enjoy!

Swedish Pancakes with Mini Chocolate Chips and Raspberries

2011-11-14T14:36:00.001-05:00

While I was visiting my two grandchildren in Atlanta

they showed me their favorite way to eat my
Swedish Pancakes.

They like to add mini chocolate chips and fresh fruit

like sliced strawberries or my favorite, raspberries.

A little sprinkle of lemon juice too.

Use just a small amount of the mini chocolate chips.

Scatter on maybe 1 t and loosely roll-up.
The mini chips will melt slightly.

Then top with fresh fruit. I had raspberries

and they had sliced strawberries. A little
sprinkle of lemon juice and a

dusting of powdered sugar over the top.
Serve on plates warmed in the oven.

A little fruit with each bite.

Very yummy! They had a very good idea!

Click on SWEDISH PANCAKES for my recipe.

Enjoy!

Links: Savvy Southern Style,
Stone Gable, Between Naps On The Porch

Crock Pot Cream Cheese Chicken Chile

2011-11-11T21:00:00.001-05:00

Here's a super easy crock pot dish.

It starts with two frozen chicken breasts.

Put all the ingredients in a crock pot.

Drain and rinse the beans.

Give it a stir and top with cream cheese.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

If you're home stir after 2 or 3 hours to blend
in the cheese. Or just stir when you get the chance.
Shred the chicken before serving.

Serve over rice.

Some chopped cilantro would be nice.

Crock Pot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili

(that's a mouthful!)

2 chicken breasts, still frozen
1 can Rotel tomatoes
1 can corn kernels, do not drain
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 pkg. Ranch dressing mix
1 T cumin
1 t chili powder
1 t onion powder
1 8-oz pkg. cream cheese
_________
Put the chicken in the crock pot.
Top with the tomatoes, corn, drained and rinsed beans,
ranch dressing, cumin, onion and chili powders,
stir to combine then top with the cream cheese.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours, stirring one or twice
to blend in the cheese.
Shred the chicken into large pieces
and serve over rice.
Serves 4
(This would also make an excellent dip!)

Enjoy!

Links: Funky Junk, Stone Gable,
Savvy Southern Style, Designs By Gollum

Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

2011-11-10T13:41:00.000-05:00

Another great fall oatmeal.

This one has all the flavors of
pumpkin pie for breakfast.

Oatmeal, milk, brown sugar, pumpkin, and
pumpkin pie spice (I mix my own).

Cook the oatmeal in the microwave then stir
in the brown sugar, pumpkin and spice mix.

Spoon into bowls and top with a toasted pecan half
and a little more milk or half and half.

Serve!

A good tip is to use pet food lids to cover
opened cans for a few days. Use the rest
for pancakes, lattes, muffins, waffles,
or more oatmeal.

Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

1/2 C Oatmeal (Quick-1 minute)

1 C milk

2 T brown sugar

2 T pumpkin

1/4 t pumpkin pie spice

toppings:

toasted pecans

half and half

Combine oatmeal and milk and cook in the

microwave for 2-2-1/2 minutes, stirring

once. Remove and stir in brown sugar, pumpkin,

and pumpkin pie spice. Serve topped with pecans

and additional milk or cream.

2 servings.

Pumpkin Pie Spice
4 t cinnamon
1 t ground cloves
1 t nutmeg
1 t ginger
Mix and store in an empty spice jar.
Easily doubles to make more.

Enjoy!

(Click on Baked Apple Oatmeal for another.)

Links: Designs By Gollum,
French Country Cottage,
The Charm of Home,
Between Naps On The Porch,
My Repurposed Life

Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins

2011-11-09T18:02:00.000-05:00

These are just as easy and quick as the

Easy Chocolate Muffins.

Just two ingredients!

Uncle Duncie's Spice cake mix and a can of pumpkin.

nothing else!

OK, I cheated and added a few mini chocolate chips

at the end just to try it.

You could add raisins if that's your thing.

I always have a jar of these minis in the pantry.

Scoop the batter into a paper-lined or

well sprayed muffin pan. It's a stiff batter.

Bake at 400 for 20 minutes.

These are fast to make if you ever have a

muffin emergency...and who hasn't had one

of those!

Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins

1 box Spice Cake Mix (Duncan Hines)

1 (15oz) can pumpkin

Mix well and scoop into lined muffin pan.

Bake for 20 minutes @400.

Can add chocolate chips

Nothing to it!

Enjoy!

note: my tasting panel preferred the muffins with

the added chocolate chips.

Mustard Chicken

2011-11-06T20:13:00.000-05:00

Chicken breasts coated in mustard and french-fried
onions is about as simple as can be.

It's very tasty, yet you can't quite identify

the ingredients if you didn't know what they were.

Just two ingredients with your chicken.
(I used two breasts and cut the recipe in half
for just the two of us.)
I flattened the chicken breast slightly
and cut them in half.

Season with House Seasoning and
spread both sides with mustard.

Coat the chicken on both sides with the crushed
onions, pressing on until well coated.

Put into a sprayed shallow casserole.
You can refrigerate here for 30 or more minutes.

Bake at 400 for about 20-25 minutes.

Serve!

Mustard Chicken
4 skinless chicken breasts
1 C mustard
6 oz can French-fried onions
House Seasoning
Flatten chicken slightly to get them even.
Season and spread both sides with mustard.
Dredge both side in crushed onions, pressing in.
Put in a sprayed shallow casserole.
Bake @400 for 20-25 minutes.
Enjoy!

Links: The Girl Creative,
Dittle Dattle, Savvy Southern Style

Spinach Pasta Salad with Asiago Cheese

2011-11-01T11:35:00.002-04:00

This is an easy pasta salad to toss together.

It can be a light entree or side salad

if you need to bring something.

I cut the recipe in half for us.

Use freshly grated Parmesan and Asiago cheese.

We're having some for lunch today.

Spinach Pasta Salad with Asiago Cheese

6 C cooked penne pasta

1 bag fresh spinach-8-10oz.

3-4 T olive oil

4 Roma tomatoes, cut up

2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 large)

generous salt and pepper to taste

3/4 C grated Asiago cheese

1/4-1/2 C grated parmesan cheese

Toss it all together.
Refrigerate if made ahead.

Can add chicken or shrimp

Enjoy!

Links: Remodelaholic,
No Minimalist Here,
Designs By Gollum, Stone Gable

Baked Apple Oatmeal

2011-10-25T20:37:00.000-04:00

Now that the weather is getting chilly

it's time for this hearty breakfast.

Hot cereal is far more nourishing and satisfying
than cold and it keeps you full longer.

You can mix this up in the evening before in a
covered bowl, then refrigerate and

bake fresh and warm in the morning.

It will make your kitchen smell wonderful.

Serve in bowls with additional milk or cream.

(my photos are of half the recipe.)

I can reheat any leftovers for a quick breakfast.

This is a great breakfast to serve before a

fall or winter activity.

Baked Apple Oatmeal

2 C oatmeal

1/2 C brown sugar

2 t cinnamon

2 T butter, melted

4 C milk

2 apples. peeled and chopped

1/2 C chopped pecans

1/2 C raisins or craisins (if desired)

Combine all ingredients and put into a buttered

2 qt casserole. Bake @350 for about 40 minutes

until most of the liquid is absorbed.

Spoon into bowls and serve

with additional milk or cream.
6-8 servings

Enjoy!

Links: Designs By Gollum,
French Country Cottage, Between U & Me
At The Picket Fence, The Charm Of Home,
Stone Gable

Asian Slaw

2011-10-18T17:45:00.004-04:00

This is a slaw you just can't stop munching on.

I like that I can make it ahead of time.

Gather ingredients: broccoli slaw, sunflower seeds,
sliced almonds, green onions and a packet of ramen noodles.

Whisk or shake in a jar the dressings ingredients:
oil, sugar, vinegar and the reserved flavor packet.

Crush the noodles and put into the bowl.

Toast the almonds in the toaster oven for about
5-10 minutes at 350, until fragrant.

Add the broccoli slaw to the bowl.
Chop the green onions and add to the bowl along
with the sunflower seeds and almonds.

Combine the dressing well and pour over.

Give it a good toss. Taste and try not to eat

too much. Put in a sealed container in the

refrigerator until ready to serve or overnight.

Asian Slaw

2 (3-oz) packages beef-flavored

ramen noodle soup mix

2 (8.5-oz) packages broccoli slaw mix
(or 16-oz bag cole slaw mix)

1 C sliced almonds, toasted

1 C sunflower kernels

1 bunch green onions, chopped

1/2 C sugar

3/4 C vegetable oil

1/3 C white or apple cider vinegar

flavor packets from soup mix

~~~~~~~~~~~

Remove the flavor packets from the soup mix

and set aside. Crush the noodles and place

them in the bottom of a large bowl.

Top with the slaw mix; sprinkle with almonds,

sunflower kernels and green onions.

~~~~~~~~~

Whisk together the contents of the

flavor packets, sugar, oil and vinegar.

Poor over the slaw. Cover and chill 24 hours.

Toss before serving.

tip: can add cut-up shrimp or chicken for
a complete meal. (about 2-4 C)

tip: I cut the recipe in half in the above photos.

for the oil ~ half of 3/4 C = 6T

for the vinegar ~ half of 1/3 C = 2T+2t

Enjoy!

Links: Designs By Gollum

Glazed Meatloaf

2011-10-16T10:54:00.000-04:00

I like comfort food like meatloaf
and don't make it often enough.
I have several recipes and this is the easiest one
because there is little prep work;
no chopping, just mix, shape and bake.

Serving my Easy Scalloped Potatoes for the side.

It can bake along with the meatloaf.

I use my handy scale to measure out the

ground beef. Gather all the ingredients.

Combine all the ingredients except the meat and

let it sit to absorb. Then mix in the meat.

Shape into a loaf and put in a shallow casserole.

*You can prepare it ahead to this point and just

cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate

to glaze and bake later.

Combine the glaze ingredients.

Spread the glaze all over the loaf.

Bake about 1 hour.

<><><><>

You'll want to save some leftover slices

for sandwiches the next day.

Warmed or cold slices of meatloaf on toast

with your choice of mustard or more ketchup.

Enjoy!

Meatloaf

2 lbs ground beef

3 slices dry bread or 1/2 C breadcrumbs
salt and pepper

2 eggs

1/2 C milk

1/2 C ketchup

1 envelope dry onion soup mix

Combine the crumbled bread or breadcrumbs in a
large bowl with the milk. Let sit for 5 minutes
to soften the bread. Add the milk, eggs, ketchup
and soup mix. Stir to combine.
Add the ground beef and mix until combined.

Shape into a loaf in a shallow casserole.

Top with glaze mixture spreading to coat.

Bake @ 350 for 1 hour.

Glaze Mixture

1/2 C ketchup

2 T brown sugar

1 T mustard

Links: Stone Gable, EKats Kitchen

Puffins!

2011-10-09T12:08:00.000-04:00

If you don't want to spend time at the stove

flipping pancakes you can bake these little

babies in the oven for 8 minutes.

Kids would love these!

Mini Maple Chocolate Chip Pancake Muffins......

That's a mouthful....so, PUFFINS for short.

I found this recipe on Bakerella.

Her recipes have never 'stirred' me wrong.

First I mixed up my own fake buttermilk,

2/3 C milk with 1 t lemon juice.

Let that sit while you whisk

the dry ingredients in a medium bowl.

Now add the egg, melted butter and maple syrup

to the milk and whisk to combine.

Combine the wet and dry ingredients just

until mixed in. Do not over-beat.

Stir in the chocolate chips.

Fill a well sprayed mini muffin pan.

It will make 24.

Bake at 350 for 8 minutes, until puffed.

The sides will pull away slightly when done.

Let cool a few minutes, then remove.

Serve warm. Brush tops with a little butter.

Then dip into warmed maple syrup.

They taste just like pancakes.

Light and fluffy.

"PUFFINS"

Mini Maple Chocolate Chip

Pancake Muffins

1 C flour

1 t baking powder

1/2 t baking soda

2 T sugar

pinch salt

Combine in a bowl and whisk together.

Set aside.

~~~~~~~~~~

In another bowl, combine,

2/3 C buttermilk

(or 2/3 C milk w/1 t lemon juice)

1 egg

2 T maple syrup

2 T melted butter

Whisk together.
1/2 C mini chocolate chips

~~~~~~~~~~

Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients.
Stir to combine. Stir in chocolate chips.

Fill sprayed mini muffin pan and bake

at 350 for 8 minutes, until done.

Let cool slightly and remove from the pan.

Brush tops with a little butter, if desired.

Serve warm with maple syrup.

(can freeze leftovers)

Enjoy!

Links: Stone Gable,
Funky Junk

Pimento Cheese

2011-09-29T13:41:00.000-04:00

It's a Southern thing.

Even though Florida is not considered "the South",
I've had a craving for it all week.
Pimento cheese is the Pate' of the South.

You can serve it on crackers, stuff celery,

fill cherry tomatoes,
make a sandwich with soft white bread,

make grilled cheese,

serve it open faced spread on sourdough bread,

make cute little tea sandwiches.

It's a snack, an appetizer, lunch and a dip.
Perfect with your afternoon tea
or an evening glass of wine

You could even fill small jars to give away.

That's a lot from a little 'ol spread.

Grate the cheese yourself instead of
buying the preshredded bags.

Add the remaining ingredients.

Combine well with a wooden spoon.

Add more jalapeno peppers

if you like the heat.

Lightly toast some sourdough bread then

spread on a generous amount of cheese and

toast again or broil until it melted and bubbly.

Now crunch into it!

Pimento Cheese

8 oz block sharp cheddar cheese, grated

8 oz block extra sharp cheese, grated

1/2 C mayonnaise

4 oz jar pimentos, diced

1 t Worcestershire sauce
1/2 t House Seasoning

1-2 T pickled jalapeno peppers, finely diced

Grate the cheese into a large bowl.

Add the remaining ingredients and mix well.

Keeps for a week in the refrigerator.

You could leave out the jalapenos and

add a dash of hot sauce or 1/4 t cayenne.

You can also add 1/2 C toasted chopped pecans.

customize it, make it yours.
This makes a lot, about 4 C.
Let soften at room temperature to serve.

I cut the recipe in half.

Y'all enjoy!

Links: Designs By Gollum,
My Romantic Home, EKats Kitchen

Sesame Grilled Pork Chops

2011-09-27T19:24:00.000-04:00

Pork is always a perfect dinner for Fall;
pork chops, roast loin, and ribs.

These pork chops are delicious on the grill.

I like to serve them with acorn squash

roasted with butter and brown sugar,

another Fall favorite.

They would also be good with; corn casserole,

scalloped potatoes, cheesy potato casserole,

deluxe macaroni and cheese, rice pilaf....

so many good choices.

Just add a green vegetable.

Marinate the chops for an hour

or cover and refrigerate for a longer time.

Then grill just until done, about 4-5 minutes

per side for 3/4" thick chops.

Keep the meat moist and juicy

by not overcooking.

This is also very good with strip steak.

<><><><>

Sesame Marinade
for Grilled Pork Chops
(or also good on Strip Steak)

enough sauce for 4-6 chops/steaks
~~~~~~~~~~~

1 t pepper

1 T sugar

1 T minced garlic (or 1/2t powder)

2 T sesame oil

2 T Dijon mustard

3 T soy sauce
4 (3/4") thick loin pork chops
(or 4 strip steaks)

Combine the ingredients and coat both sides
of the meat. Cover with saran wrap and
refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Grill on a preheated hot grill for about 4 minutes
on each side for thick chops. Do not overcook.
(about 3 minutes each side for steak)

or to desired doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes.

Season with salt to taste.

Enjoy!

Links: Stone Gable,
Designs By Gollum

Autumn Granola

2011-09-26T17:35:00.000-04:00

Adding pumpkin seeds and maple syrup gives
my easy granola a nice nod to autumn.

I keep the granola handy in a glass pumpkin

on the counter.

Combine the dry ingredients.

Stir in the hot liquid until

everything is well coated.

Spread onto a rimmed baking sheet.

Bake @300 for 35 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Let cool and break apart. Pour into container.

It will keep at room temperature for

2-3 weeks. Have it with milk and a sliced banana

for breakfast, or sprinkle some over yogurt and ice cream.

It makes a great snack too.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Autumn Granola

2 C Oatmeal (quick-cook rolled oats)

1/4 C sliced almonds

1/4 C chopped pecans

1/4 C shelled pumpkin seeds

1/4 C butter (1/2 stick)

1/4 C brown sugar

1/4 C maple syrup
1/2 t cinnamon

2 T water

In a large bowl stir together the oatmeal, almonds, pecans and pumpkin seeds,

In a small saucepan combine the butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, maple syrup and water.

Bring to a boil and pour the hot syrup into the
dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until
ingredients are thoroughly coated and combined.
Spread evenly onto a rimmed baking sheet and
bake at 300 stirring halfway thru until
golden brown and dry to the touch,
about 35 minutes. Let cool then break apart
and store in an airtight container.
Keeps about 2-3 weeks at room temperature.

Makes about 3-1/2 C.
Recipe doubles easily.

Enjoy for breakfast or anytime!

click HERE for My Easy Granola recipe.
Links: Coastal Charm, A Stroll Thru Life,
Jam Hands, Stone Gable, Designs By Gollum

German Spaetzle

2011-09-20T15:23:00.001-04:00

Spaetzle With Chicken Paprikash

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This German classic is a light, small
dumpling-like noodle, wonderful with roasts and
chicken, or anything that has a sauce.

This recipe will be enough for 3-4 servings,
but I usually make a double amount and

put extras into Ziplock bags and store
them flat in the freezer.

Combine the eggs, water and salt in a medium bowl.

Whisk with a fork.

Stir in the flour. It should be a wet dough

that you can stir with a fork.

If it's too stiff add a little more water.

Ist das nicht ein Spatzle maker?

Ja das ist ein Spatzle maker.

The spaetzle maker fits over the rim of the pot.

Put the dough into the square hopper of the

spaetzle maker over a large pot
of boiling salted water.

Quickly slide the hopper back and forth
grating the dough over the holes
and into the boiling water.

Let the water come to a boil again then

let the spaetzle cook for one minute.

After they rise to the top the are done!

Use a slotted spoon to strain the spaetzle

out of the water and into a serving bowl.

Repeat process with any remaining batter.

You can butter, salt and pepper now or just

serve along with the sauce of you main dish.

You can also saute them in butter and season.

Spaetzle with Pork Roast and Gravy

Spaetzle, it's a nice alternative to potatoes, rice or pasta.

Spaetzle

2 eggs

1/2 C water

1/2 t salt

2 C flour

Whisk the egg, water and salt with a fork in a medium bowl.

Add the flour and stir until a sticky dough forms. Add more water if the dough is too

thick to stir with a fork. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Put the dough into the holder of the spaetzle maker and quickly rub back and forth to press the dough through the holes. Let the water return to a boil. The spaetzle will rise to the top when they are about done. This will take about one minute, then skim them out of the water and into a serving bowl. Repeat with the remaining dough.
*You can also use a tin can and press the dough through the holes in the can.

You can also serve spaetzle with a little butter, salt and pepper.

Leftover spaetzle can be heated in the microwave or sauteed in a little butter

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Don't be afraid to try these. They are very easy to make and only take about 5
minutes to prepare. If you are lucky enough to find a spaetzle maker they go really fast. I found one in a thrift store for $1, probably because no one knew what it was.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Here's a way to make a homemade spaetzle maker out of a tin can.
Clean and wash a large tin can and punch holes
in the bottom the size of a pencil with
a large screw driver or pick. Put the dough in
and push it through the holes into
the boiling water using a large rubber spatula.
You can also use a colander with large holes.

Guten Appetit!

Easy Scalloped Potatoes

2011-09-14T10:06:00.001-04:00

I like to make this easy scalloped potatoes

side dish when I have something else roasting

in the oven for dinner

like chicken, ribs, meatloaf, roast beef, etc.

This is extra easy to whip-up because you

don't have to prepare a cream sauce separately.

You can make a small or large casserole

using this method.

In a buttered casserole layer:

sliced potatoes

sliced onions

sprinkle on a little flour

sprinkle on a little salt and pepper

dot with butter

repeat.

Pour on milk to about halfway up.

Sprinkle with a little paprika. cover with foil.

Bake for 1 hour at 350.

Then uncover and bake another 30 minutes until

the potatoes are fork tender and browned.

I always make the whole recipe because this

makes great leftovers for another meal.

Good with my Glazed Meatloaf.

Easy Scalloped Potatoes

....serves 6

4 potatoes, sliced thin (peeled or un-peeled)

1 onion, sliced thin (about 2/3C)

1/4 pepper

1 t salt

2 T flour

3 T butter

1-1/2 to 2 C milk

paprika

Butter a shallow casserole and layer with half

of the potatoes, half the onions,

half the salt pepper. Sprinkle on half the flour.

Dot with half the butter.

Now repeat with the remaining

potatoes, onion, salt, pepper, flour and butter.

Now pour the milk over all and sprinkle

with a little paprika.

Cover and bake for 45 minutes @350 or 375.

Uncover and bake another 15 minutes

until the potatoes are fork tender and browned.

Enjoy!

Links: My Romantic Home,
Stone Gable

Baked Greek Chicken

2011-09-08T18:01:00.000-04:00

This chicken recipe is too easy
to be this good.

You can easily make it if you are cooking for
one or twenty.

Ranch Dressing
Worcestershire sauce
Salt, Pepper, Garlic Mix

On each breast,

Drizzle on a little Worcestershire (about 1 t)

Sprinkle with a little House Seasoning Mix.

Squirt on a little Ranch Dressing (about 2 T)

and spread it a bit. Pop into a 350-375 oven

for 30 minutes, or until lightly browned.

Serve with rice and a green vegetable.

~~~Dinner is served~~~

You can also use a whole cut-up chicken.

Cook that a little longer.

I reuse an empty seasoning container

to mix-up Paula Deen's

House Seasoning

1/2 C salt

1/4 C pepper

1/4 C garlic powder

Add to a large shaker top container.

Toss to combine.

It goes on almost everything.

Baked Greek Chicken

boneless chicken breasts

(1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8)

or a whole cut-up chicken

Worcestershire sauce

Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing

Garlic-Salt-Pepper Mix

Put chicken pieces in a shallow casserole.

Drizzle a little Worcestershire on each piece.

Sprinkle on a little seasoning mix.

Squirt on a little Ranch dressing.

Bake at 350 until golden for about 30 minutes.

(More for bone in chicken pieces.)

Serve with rice.

Enjoy!

tip: Use your toaster oven if you are just making one.

Links: Designs By Gollum, At The Picket Fence,
EKat's Kitchen, Stone Gable, Savvy Southern Style

Lemon Brownies

2011-08-23T19:38:00.004-04:00

This is a good treat for someone that

doesn't like chocolate.

( I can't believe I just typed that sentence )

In a large bowl combine the sugar, flour

and salt. Add the softened butter.

tip:You can soften a stick if butter in the

microwave for 25 seconds on 30% power

Whisk the eggs in another bowl and add the lemon juice,

and zest.

Combine the two and beat until smooth.

I always use the butter wrapper to grease the pan.

Pour in the batter.

Bake at 350 for 25 minutes.

Mix the powdered sugar, lemon juice and zest.

Spread on the cooled lemon brownies.

It will make a nice thin glaze.

Cut into squares.

These have a light yet dense texture,

similar to brownies. I'll give them their own

new name......Lemonies!

Enjoy!

Lemon Brownies

3/4 C flour

3/4 C sugar

1/4 t salt

1 stick butter, soft

2 eggs

juice from 1/2 lemon (about 1T)

zest from 1/2 lemon (about 1t)

Combine the flour, sugar and salt

in a large bowl.

Mix in the softened butter.

In another bowl whisk the eggs with

the lemon juice and zest.

Add to the larger bowl and mix well.

Pour into prepared 8X8 brownie pan.

Bake at 350 for 25 minutes.

You can double the recipe and bake in a

9X13 pan for 30 minutes.

Remove and let cool, then glaze.

Glaze

1/2C powdered sugar

1 T lemon juice

additional lemon zest

stir together

note: 1 stick of butter is = to 1/2 C or 1/4 pound

Links: Savvy Southern Style, Designs By Gollum,
EKats Kitchen

Joe's Grilled Tomatoes

2011-08-21T16:24:00.000-04:00

I hope you saved 1/2 C of the garlic creamed spinach from the previous post.

This is a fast easy side that goes great
with grilled steak. It's also a good lunch
or a great afternoon snack.

Combine the leftover 1/2 C creamed spinach with
2 T melted butter and 2 T bread crumbs.

Divide the mixture on top of four 1/2" thick slices of beefsteak tomatoes.

Cover the top with 3 slices of American cheese.

Real cheese works best (not cheese product)

Broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is bubbly

and slightly browned.

Grilled Tomatoes

1 beefsteak tomato

1/2 C garlic creamed spinach

2 T melted butter

2 T seasoned breadcrumbs

3 thick slices American cheese

Slice the tomato into 1/2" slices.

Combine spinach, butter, and breadcrumbs.

Divide on top of the tomato.

Dice the cheese and add to top.

Broil 2-3 minutes

(watch carefully)

Links: Designs By Gollum

Joe's Garlic Creamed Spinach

2011-08-20T17:24:00.001-04:00

Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant on South Beach

is world famous. They have been a Florida

landmark for almost 100 years.

Everybody goes for the amazing stone crab,

but their sides dishes and key lime pies

are also very popular.

Here's the recipe for the garlic creamed spinach,

one of the house specialities.

Have the ingredients ready because it doesn't take long to prepare.

Saute the garlic in the hot butter.

Add the flour and whisk to cook for one minute.

Add the half and half and cook until thickened.

Stir in the spinach and seasonings.

Let simmer for about 10 minutes.

You can cover it and keep it warm for longer.

Garlic Creamed Spinach

2 boxes frozen chopped spinach, thawed

3 T butter

1 T minced garlic

1 T flour

3/4 C half and half

3/4 t salt

1/2 t nutmeg

1/4 t pepper

Squeeze all the water out of the spinach and set aside.

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan and cook the

chopped garlic about 1 minute until fragrant.

Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.

Gradually whisk in the half and half and cook until thickened.

Stir in the spinach and seasonings.

Cook on low for about 10 minutes.

Save any leftover spinach for Joe's Broiled Tomatoes.

I'll post that next.

Enjoy!

Links: Stone Gable

Sunshine Muffins

2011-07-31T18:38:00.004-04:00

These orange muffins start with a whole fresh orange, peel and all.

They are quickly made in a food processor.

If you don't have a food processor you can puree

the orange and juice in a blender.

Cut the orange into 8 pieces and drop in the bowl

with 1/2 C orange juice.

Puree about 1 minute.

Add egg and melted butter. Blend until smooth.

Add the dry ingredients;

flour, sugar, baking powder and baking soda.

Pulse a few times just until blended.

Pour into sprayed muffin tin.

Bake for 15-20 minutes at 400.

Let sit for 5 minutes before removing.

Enjoy warm.

Butter and raspberry jam would be good too.

Or let the muffins cool and glaze.

You can freeze leftovers.

Sunshine Muffins

1 orange

1/2 C orange juice

1 egg

1 stick butter or margarine, melted

1-3/4 C flour

1 C sugar

1 t baking powder

1 t baking soda

Cut the orange into 8 pieces and

drop into a food processor.

Add orange juice and puree.

Add the melted butter and egg.

Blend until smooth.

Add the dry ingredients and pulse 2-3

times just until blended.

Scoop into sprayed muffin tins.

Bake for 15-20 minutes at 400.

Let sit for 5 minutes before removing.

optional glaze

1 C powdered sugar

1-2 T orange juice

combine and spread about one tablespoon

onto the top of each cooled muffin.

Enjoy!

Links: Stone Gable, Designs By Gollum,
Jam Hands, The Lady Behind The Curtain

Cranberry Glazed Chicken

2011-07-25T13:28:00.005-04:00

Dinner couldn't be any easier than

cranberry glazed chicken.

Serve with white or wild rice and a green vegetable.

Saute the chopped onion in a little oil.

Add the cranberry sauce, ketchup, mustard,

and brown sugar. Heat, stirring until well combined

and the cranberry sauce melts.

I always use the larger 14-oz can of whole berry sauce

and store the rest in a glass jar in the refrigerator.

Use 3-4 boneless breasts, cut into serving size

pieces if very large.

Put into a sprayed shallow casserole.

Salt and pepper the chicken and pour the sauce over.

Bake at 350 uncovered for 35-45 minutes until glazed.

You can also use cut-up chicken pieces.

Bake those a little longer, 45-50 minutes.

Cranberry Glazed Chicken

3-4 boneless chicken breasts or

1 whole chicken cut-up

1 T oil

1/4 C diced onion

8 oz can whole berry cranberry sauce

1/4 C brown sugar

1/2 C ketchup

1 T dijon mustard

In a small saucepan saute the onion in oil until tender.

Add the cranberry sauce, ketchup, mustard, and

brown sugar. Stir over low heat until

the cranberry sauce is melted and well combined.

Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

Place in a sprayed shallow casserole.

Pour the sauce over the chicken.

Bake at 350 for 35-45 minutes until glazed.

Serve over wild or white rice and add a fresh

green vegetable.

Enjoy!

Links: Savvy Southern Style, Coastal Charm,
Designs By Gollum, Funky Junk, Stone Gable

Chicago Style Hot Dogs~Franks For The Memories!

2011-07-23T09:31:00.000-04:00

This is the dog of choice for anyone who has

ever lived in Chicago. Chicago dogs are classic and

a big favorite of sports fans and everyone

from "hardhats" to "power suits".

Every neighborhood sells them.

Everybody eats them!

An all beef frank piled with toppings.

Here are the must-have ingredients

that you'll need to build one.

Poppy seed buns are a must!

I couldn't find them in my area so I cheated

and buttered the buns and sprinkled on poppy seeds.

Cut up and ready to go:
chopped onions, dill spears, tomato wedges,
sport peppers if you can find them.
(I used jalapeno, you can also use
poblano or pepperoncini)

Simmer the dogs for five minutes.

I steamed the poppy seed buns

on a dampened paper towel

in the microwave for 20 seconds.

Looks great, but something is missing!

The chopped onions....don't leave anything out!

It's the perfect combo of flavors in your mouth.

The toppings must be layered in this order;

mustard, relish, chopped onion, tomato wedges,

dill pickle spear, sport peppers.

It wouldn't be a Chicago dog without

a good sprinkle of celery salt, another must.

Don't even think about adding ketchup!

Now, take a bite!

Sweet Home Chicago!

Enjoy!

Today is National Hot Dog Day

Celebrate!

Better Than Bran Muffins~Bran Muffins

2011-07-19T15:08:00.001-04:00

I got this recipe from a friend when I told her that I wasn't that fond of bran muffins.

She said that these were better than (regular) bran muffins~~hence the name!

Cream the butter and brown sugar.

Beat in the egg.

Beat in the sour cream.

Add 1 C tightly packed raisin bran cereal.

Stir in and let rest for 5 minutes.

Stir in the flour, salt and soda.

Just until combined.

Spoon into greased 12 cup muffin tin.

Bake for 15-20 minutes at 400 until golden.

I always like to have homemade muffins in the freezer.

I put them on a tray in the freezer for about 20 minutes to harden.

Then I can just pop them into a freeze bag.

Enjoy!

Better Than Raisin Bran Muffins

~Raisin Bran Muffins~

1/2 C butter or margarine (one stick)

1 C brown sugar

1 egg

1 C sour cream

1 C packed Raisin Bran cereal

1 C flour

1 t baking soda

1/4 t salt

Cream the butter and brown sugar with a hand mixer

Mix in the egg then sour cream.

Mix in the cereal and let sit for 5 minutes to absorb.

Stir in the flour, soda and salt. Let sit 3-4 minutes.

Spoon into greased 12 C muffin tin.

Bake at 400 for about 15-20 minutes until golden.

Links: Designs By Gollum

The Reuben Sandwich with Homemade 1000 Island Dressing

2011-07-16T17:06:00.001-04:00

Another one of our top ten favorite sandwiches is the a

Grilled Reuben.

I never buy bottled 1000 Island dressing because

it's so easy to mix up a batch at home

with ingredients I already have in the house.

I dont even measure anymore.
Just dump in a jar and stir it until

it looks like 1000 Island dressing.

I don't use it on salads. I like it on sandwiches.

It's great for a chicken or turkey sandwich.

It's also good on a BLT, another favorite sandwich.
~~~~~~~~

To Make A Reuben

you'll need: rye bread, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut,

pastrami or corned beef, butter or margarine and

1000 Island dressing

~~~~~~~~

Butter one side of the rye bread slices and

put them buttered sides together while you
assemble the sandwiches.

Spread the other side with dressing and
pile on the corned beef or pastrami

Top with sauerkraut. Squeeze out any extra juice.

Lay on Swiss cheese slices.

Add more dressing if desired.
Put it on your preheated grill, or fry pan.

Top with the remaining buttered rye bread slices, butter side up.

Close the grill and grill for about 5 minutes.
If using a fry pan you'll need to flip the sandwich.

Remove from the pan when the sandwich is grilled to

a golden brown perfection and the cheese is melted.

Enjoy!

1000 Island Dressing
1 C mayonnaise
1/4 C sweet relish
1/4 C ketchup
1/4 t salt & 1/4 t pepper
1/2 t tarragon
1 t Worcestershire sauce
dash Tabasco (optional)
Combine all ingredients in a jar.
Store in the refrigerator to use as
sandwich spread.