tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67074066689426767072024-02-20T12:04:16.592-08:00Lindsays food blogMy favorite recipes!lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-81141156963728742542011-02-01T16:51:00.000-08:002011-02-01T16:53:48.442-08:00Aphrodisiac<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;font-size:14.0pt;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">When life gets busy, sometimes it’s hard to get inspired. Our days can be so repetitious and we all need a way to clear our heads every once in a while. I am always trying to think of fun and delicious recipes; sometimes I forget this is what I like doing the most! Food can be so complex, with each ingredient originating from a different life, they’re taste and benefits to your body can come together in amazing ways. I mean, think about it! Different foods can change your mood, energy, alertness, and even sexuality! There are so many ways to use food to your own advantage.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Today food aphrodisiacs inspired me and there are many of them. But the region that came to mind was Italy; the Italians are very sexual people! And what is there food like? What makes an Italian meal so romantic? The main key in Italian cooking is simple ingredients and keeping it fresh. Using the right, fresh ingredients=more nutrients=better meal! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Even the most basic of Italian sauce recipes is very benefifial to the libido, like fresh basil pesto, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, basil, all work in libido boosting harmony. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">For example, pine nuts are rich in zinc and have been used to boost the libido as far back as medieval times. Garlic has many essencial oils and cell-activating effects, and has been used for this purpose as far back as the Egyptians! Combining this recipe with simple pasta, such as linguine, and mixing in sun-dried tomatoes to serve creates a visually appealing, colorful dish. But don’t forget that the act of eating the meal is very important as an aphrodisiac. The long noodles twirl around your fork ending up in your mouth. Totally sexy! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">So if you want to avoid restaurants for a date and want to make something easy yet impressive and sexy, try this recipe! Oh yea! And definitely pair this with some wine, I prefer a dry white wine, but its up to you! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;font-size:14.0pt;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;font-size:14.0pt;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:10.0pt;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;font-size:20.0pt;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;font-size:20.0pt;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;font-size:20.0pt;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:LucidaGrande;font-size:20.0pt;color:black;">Fresh Basil Pesto with Pasta <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><b>INGREDIENTS<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">2 cups fresh basil leaves<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">½-cup freshly grated Parmesan-Reggiano or Romano cheese<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">½-cup extra virgin olive oil<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">1/3-cup pine nuts or walnuts<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">3 medium sized garlic cloves, minced<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><b>Directions <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Combine the basil in with the pine nuts, pulse a few times in a food processor. Add the garlic, pulse a few times more. Slowly add the olive oil in a constant stream while the food processor is on. Stop to scrape down the sides of the food processor with a rubber spatula. Add the grated cheese and pulse again until blended. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">Serve with pasta, or over baked potatoes, or spread over toasted baguette slices.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-42343692134922859462011-01-10T13:02:00.000-08:002011-01-10T13:08:08.800-08:00New Year Solutions!<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Well it’s the New Year and that means a new fresh start! For most people a new years resolution is to eat healthier or loose weight and for many that means cutting out the foods they love. You could do that and stick with boring salads or diet fad shakes, OR you can think of your favorite foods you order out, look up ingredients and recipes on them and just simply replace high caloric/sugar ingredients with less fatting ingredients. I love to take recipes that seem difficult and fattening and make them easy to cook and healthy.</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Now, Indian food is not my forte, but that doesn’t stop me from trying out recipes and experimenting with the flavors. On special occasions I LOVE to sit down at an Indian restaurant and order a big bowl of curry and white rice! And you may think that it isn’t that bad for you and its not. But with curries having large amounts of sugar and calories from the coconut milk and meats usually consisting of dark, bone in meat, a dish can range from several hundred calories to a thousand! With my recipe I have used lite coconut milk witch is less than half the calories and sugar per serving than the regular coconut milk, also using white chicken meat cuts fat significantly.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Naturally, the spices used in Indian cuisine remain beneficial, for example,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Coriander treats high cholesterol levels, anemia, digestion, menstrual pain, skin disorders etc. Curry powder serves to purify the blood, also stimulating new blood tissue. Cumin is extremely good for the digestive system and related problems, and all 3 of these spices aid in metabolism. Coconut milk contains many vitamins, minerals and electrolytes, which give you energy through out the day.</span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Plus, with a recipe like this you can pretty much add any veggie you like, and it will be fresher and better than ordering out. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: normal; font-size:35px;">Chicken Masala Curry</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">Ingredients:</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">2 tbsp vegetable oil <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">2 large onions</span><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">, chopped<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">4 garlic cloves</span><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">, smashed and chopped<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">1 piece fresh gingerroot, about 2 inches long, peeled and chopped<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">3 tbsp curry powder </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">1 tbsp fresh cumin</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">1tbsp fresh coriander </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">1-cup water</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">4 tbsp tomato paste</span><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">, about one whole small can<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">1 can lite coconut milk </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">1 zucchini, sliced<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">2 large carrots, peeled and sliced<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:22.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">2 chicken breasts cooked and cubed. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:14.0pt;line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:14.0pt;line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><b>Directions:<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">Cook the onions over medium heat until softened.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">Add garlic and ginger; continue to cook until fragrant and softened.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">Remove from heat; add Curry powder, cumin, and coriander. Stir until mixed, and then add tomato paste. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">Add 1-cup water into the pot. Blend with an emersion blender (or regular blender) until smooth.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">Add vegetables, cover, but allowing a little steam to release, and cook for at least 30 minutes on low, but no more than an hour. Stir in coconut milk. Add chicken pieces, stir and serve with healthy</span><span style="font-family:ArialMT;font-size:13.0pt;color:black;"> brown rice. </span><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-38056517959064410812010-12-29T14:26:00.000-08:002010-12-29T14:29:38.520-08:00New Years Bubbly!<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> What is the best way to kick off the new years? With a special glass of Champagne! It really has become a tradition for most people, Champagne, food, friends, loved ones, all synonymous with ringing in the New Year. Rather than settling for your average glass of Champagne, why not make it extra special this year by just adding a couple ingredients to make a not so expensive glass of Champagne taste like you just ordered it at a 5 star restaurant! Pomegranate is a unique, slightly tart and sweet flavor that you wouldn’t normally gravitate to but it works amazing in this drink.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> I love to pair drinks with food and I also know that Champagne can be difficult to pair with food. Personally, I would stick with something simple and not too complex. First, we all know we don’t want to have bad breath before that mid-night kiss, so I would suggest putting out some fruit such as, raspberries, strawberries, pineapple, etc. Also, if you choose Chocolate, choose white chocolate. White chocolate is creamier, sweeter, and less complex than other kinds of chocolate, it makes a far better match with Champagne and wine.</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Well, there you have it! I hope you all have an amazing New Years!! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:18px;">Pomegranate Champagne</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Ingredients:</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">6 tbsp Pomegranate syrup </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1 bottle brute Champagne </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">6 lemon twists </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Directions:</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Place one teaspoon of syrup at the bottom of each champagne flute or glass. Gently pour in champagne and garnish with a lemon twist Pomegranate syrup can be found in the international food section of your supermarket or at a local Middle Eastern foods market.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Serves 6 </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-64634067429806127582010-12-10T09:20:00.000-08:002010-12-10T09:26:18.807-08:00No bake - Peace of cake!<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:13.0pt;color:black;"> </span><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I LOVE desserts! And I also love baking, but when I am cooking a big meal in a little kitchen with limited oven space, it makes dessert difficult to fit in to your dinner plans. I could just go to the grocery store and buy a dessert, but where is the fun in that!</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I have emphasized in previous entries that I LOVE the holidays and I am always looking to create delicious and easy recipes to bring to your friends holiday parties. When you want to be with family and friends, you don’t want to be slaving away in the kitchen. With minimal ingredients and no baking, this recipe is perfect! This is also a really fun recipe to make with kids, or to let them do themselves! Just set out all the ingredients on the kitchen table with a mixer and give them direction. It’s that easy and pretty fool proof. Plus, it’s much safer than having them running around you in the kitchen with the hot oven and stove. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">In addition, for all my anti-sugar friends out there, you can replace the sugar with splenda or a sugar substitute. You </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">could </span></i></span><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">use a reduced fat cream cheese as well, but I really do think that it compromises the flavor and texture of the cheesecake. So I would stick with the regular cream cheese, it will make for a creamier, more decedent finished product.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Ingredients</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1 pkg. (8 oz.) Cream Cheese, softened </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1 cup canned pumpkin </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/2-cup sugar </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> 1 tub (8 oz.) Cool Whip Whipped Topping, thawed, divided </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1 Graham Pie Crust (6 oz.) </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Directions</span></b></span><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Beat cream cheese, pumpkin, sugar and pumpkin pie spice with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended. Gently fold in 2-1/2 cups of the whipped topping. Cover and refrigerate remaining whipped topping for later use.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;text-align:justify;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Spoon cream cheese mixture into crust.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Refrigerate 3 hours or overnight. Serve topped with remaining whipped topping. Store leftover cheesecake in refrigerator</span></span><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-91535378577972206502010-11-30T10:23:00.000-08:002010-11-30T10:29:15.159-08:00Wholesome and Healthy for the Holidays<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">So Thanksgiving is over, but more holidays are right around the corner! And if you are like me, its not just Christmas dinner you have to worry about, there are many different dinners and parties through the month of December with friends and family. Perfect! That gives you an opportunity to try out delicious new recipes on your friends! </p> <p class="MsoNormal">To me, there are a few factors that make a dish great, and I think my Roasted Butternut Squash soup fits pretty much all of them. Its affordable, fresh, minimal ingredients, healthy, and delicious!! Now I could go buy Butternut squash at the store, but if you look at the ingredients on the back, there are words I can’t even pronounce! That’s usually not a good sign. Lol. Not to mention store bought soups contain WAY more calories than MY soup. I don’t understand why people always think that soups are so difficult to make from scratch! And why people always think I’m such a culinary genius for making them!!?? (Even though I am.. lol, jk) They can really be easy if you find the right recipes. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">All in all, this is a great soup for the wintertime. Whether for lunch, as an appetizer or dinner, this Butternut squash soup will have everyone coming back for seconds, so you may want to think about doubling this recipe!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:18.0pt">Roasted Butternut Squash soup<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b>Ingredients <o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 (2-3 lb) Butternut squash, seeded and chopped into 2 inch pieces </p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 medium onion, large rough chop </p> <p class="MsoNormal">6 cups vegetable or chicken stock (reduced sodium) </p> <p class="MsoNormal">3 tbsp extra virgin Olive Oil</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1/3 tsp Nutmeg </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Salt and pepper </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b>Directions <o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Preheat oven to 400 degrees. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">On a large sheet pan, arrange squash and onion evenly, drizzle olive oil over top along with a heavy pinch or salt and pepper, making sure everything has been seasoned.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Roast for about 40 minutes until the squashes edges turn golden brown. Remove and let cool slightly. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Pour squash mixture into a large pot over medium-high heat, add stock and bring to a boil. Reduce to heat to medium-low and allow to simmer for 10 minutes. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Take off heat, and using an emulation blender in the pot, blend ingredients until smooth. (You can use any sort or processor or blender you like) stir in Nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-17016786904518971272010-11-17T10:17:00.000-08:002010-11-17T10:29:05.754-08:00Holiday Indulgence<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:4.0pt;line-height:15.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The Holidays are all about indulgence. Many delicious dishes come to mind including one of my favorite indulgent desserts, Pecan pie! In my family growing up we always cooked all the main course dishes and got store bought pies and cakes for dessert. It wasn’t until I really became interested cooking that I wanted to figure out how to bake, and what was so difficult about it? In my cooking I tend to not use exact measurements, but with baking you typically have to or else your finished product will not turn out the way you want it. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:4.0pt;line-height:15.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Unlike cake and other baked goods, pecan pie is one of my favorites because the measurements don’t have to be exact, and its pretty fool proof, just how I like it!</span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Buying a store bought crust for your pie cuts your prep time in half, and the filling is made over the stove, so it’s a lot like cooking. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:4.0pt;line-height:15.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">There is something that is just so rewarding about baking your own desserts for the holidays, and this one is so delicious and fun to make with the family! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:4.0pt;line-height:15.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:4.0pt;line-height:15.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:4.0pt;line-height:15.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:4.0pt;mso-line-height-alt:15.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">Chocolate pecan pie</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:4.0pt;line-height:15.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:4.0pt;mso-line-height-alt:15.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Ingredients </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:4.0pt;line-height:15.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> 2 pie crusts, store bought already in baking dish.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:4.0pt;line-height:15.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> Filling:</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">5 tbsp unsalted butter</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1 cup packed light brown sugar</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">3/4-cup light corn syrup </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1/2 tsp salt</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">2 cups chopped toasted pecans</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1 to 2 tbsp bourbon </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">2 tsp vanilla extract</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">3 eggs, lightly beaten</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">½ cup Dark chocolate chips </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Directions</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:9.0pt;line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Set separate racks in the center and lower third of oven and preheat to 400 degrees. Put a piece of parchment paper or foil over the pie shell and fill with dried beans or </span><a href="http://www.foodterms.com/encyclopedia/pie-weights/index.html"><span style="text-decoration:none;text-underline:nonecolor:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">pie weights</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">. Bake on a baking sheet on the center rack until the dough is set, about 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and lift sides of the parchment paper to remove the beans. Continue baking until the pie shell is lightly golden brown, about 10 more minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees F.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:9.0pt;line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">While the crust is baking make the filling: In medium saucepan</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring to a boil</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> over medium heat, and stirring constantly, continue to boil for 1 minute. Remove from the heat and stir in the nuts</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">, bourbon, and the vanilla. Set the mixture aside to cool slightly, about 5 minutes. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> Whisk the beaten eggs into the filling until smooth. Put the pie shell on a sheet pan</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> and pour the filling into the hot crust, sprinkle chocolate chips over top of filling. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Bake on the lower oven rack until the edges are set but the center is still slightly loose, about 40 to 45 minutes. (If the edges get very dark, cover them with aluminum foil half way during baking.) Cool on a rack. Serve slightly warm or room temperature.</span></span><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-35727388498240070922010-11-02T10:35:00.000-07:002010-11-02T10:41:12.954-07:00Steaming 101<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Fish recipes can often be tricky for some people. Unless you are familiar with how to cook different types of fish and what pairs well with them, it’s hard to find recipes that will always turn out delicious no matter what. An “En Papillote” fish dish lets you make a delicious French style dinner quick and easy. "En Papillote" simply means that the fish is wrapped in parchment paper before you cook it. This is an awesome way to cook fish and vegetables simultaneously and the fish comes out tender and delicious every time. The paper seals in all the flavor and aroma, which is why this cooking method is so popular. For an outdoor grilling day, you can also replace the parchment paper for foil. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I use this cooking method with fish ALL the time. It is one of my favorite ways of steaming which I learned in culinary school. Usually the foods that taste the best are also the easiest to make with minimal ingredients. So that makes this dish pretty cost efficient as well! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">In addition to the fish, you can add pretty much any vegetables you like. You might like to add some diced tomatoes, sliced carrots, peppers, capers, lemon juice, or lime juice to the package, as well as the butter or oil and the seasonings. Halibut, tilapia, salmon, and red snapper are all suitable fish for cooking En Papillote because this cooking method works best with firm, meaty fish.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;font-size:13pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;font-size:18pt;"><b>Halibut En Papillote <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;font-size:13pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;font-size:14pt;"><b>Ingredients: <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;font-size:13pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;">2 tablespoons butter<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;">2 cloves garlic, finely minced<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;">4 (6 ounce) Halibut fillets<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;">Salt and pepper to taste<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;">1 lemon, thinly sliced<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;">½ lb grape tomatoes, sliced in half <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;">2 heads bok Choy, leaves removed <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;">½ cup dry white wine <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;">2 tablespoons olive oil<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:.25in;line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;"><b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:.25in;line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;font-size:14pt;"><b>Directions:<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;">Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Cut four large rectangles of parchment paper and fold in half; unfold. (about 25 inches) <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;">Drizzle a tiny bit of olive oil in the center of one of the parchment paper folds, place fish filets over oil so not to stick when baking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Dab a bit of butter over top of the fish and season with salt and pepper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Place about 2 lemon slices over seasoned fish. Divide garlic tomatoes and Bok Choy evenly over fish. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;">Fold top half of parchment paper over fish and crimp to seal; place on two baking sheets. Once everything is in place, open paper a tiny bit and evenly distribute wine into all of the paper pouches, re-cover. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial;">Bake at 400 degrees F for 12-16 minutes, switching baking sheets halfway through cooking time, until fish flakes easily when tested with fork. Serve immediately.</span><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-6255961597745324372010-10-19T10:44:00.000-07:002010-10-19T10:49:13.565-07:00Flavor of Fall<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">Well, it's fall and that means holiday meals to come, my favorite time of the year!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The flavors of fall and winter are inherently warm flavors that make us feel cozy in the cold. Apples, pumpkin, cranberries, squash, and cinnamon are a few of foods synonymous with this time of the year. More forgotten than not when it comes to fall and winter meals, is breakfast, and it’s the most important meal of the day! Now this recipe isn’t the <i>healthiest </i></span><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">type of breakfast, but ya know, it's not bikini season right now people so chill out! If you wanted, you could substitute the sugar with Splenda or Agave nectar, and the flour with whole-wheat flour to make it a little more figure friendly. But really, in my opinion it’s all about portion control and you can eat whatever you want. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">This is a great recipe to get the kids and the family involved in the baking process on a cold and snowy day. Great paired with a cup of Joe, or just as a mid-day snack, your family and friends are sure to love these creamy, moist, pumpkin cream cheese muffins! <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:14.0pt;color:black;"><b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:14.0pt;color:black;"><b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:14.0pt;color:black;"><b>Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:14.0pt;color:black;"><b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:14.0pt;color:black;"><b>Ingredients<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">1 egg<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">1 tsp vanilla extract<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">3 tbsp brown sugar<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">4 1/2 tbsp all-purpose flour<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">5 tbsp white sugar<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">3/4 tsp cinnamon<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">3 tbsp butter<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">3 tbsp chopped pecans<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">2 cups white sugar<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">2 tsp baking powder<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">2 tsp ground cinnamon<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">1/2 tsp salt<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">2 eggs<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">1 1/3 cups canned pumpkin<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">1/3 cup canola oil<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">2 tsp vanilla extract<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:14.0pt;color:black;"><b>Directions<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease and flour 18 muffin cups, or use paper liners.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">To make the filling: In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese until soft. Add egg, vanilla and brown sugar. Beat until smooth, and then set aside.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">For the streusel topping: In a medium bowl, mix flour, sugar, cinnamon and pecans. Add butter and cut it in with a fork until crumbly. Set aside.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">For the muffin batter: In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon and salt. Make a well in the center of flour mixture and add eggs, pumpkin, canola oil and vanilla. Beat together until smooth.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">Place pumpkin mixture in muffin cups about 1/2 full. Then add one tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture right in the middle of the batter. Try to keep cream cheese from touching the paper cup. Sprinkle on the streusel topping.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:11.0pt;color:black;">Bake at 375 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes</span><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-79778370876453721432010-10-12T15:26:00.000-07:002010-10-12T15:29:26.117-07:00Funny Food<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:"Adobe Caslon Pro"">This is one of those feel good, comforting dishes that I love to make for my guests, and when I am catering. It’s easy to make ahead, the ingredients are mostly items that you would find in your refrigerator anyways, so it makes it pretty cost efficient and it will totally impress whomever you are serving it to. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:"Adobe Caslon Pro"">I originally came up with this dish a couple years ago for comedian/actor Garret Morris. Garret Morris is one of the original cast members of “Saturday Night Live” and continues making people laugh with appearances in many different commercials and TV shows. He lived in my former apartment building so I would always see him around. Currently I was filming for my show “Dishing With Celebs” and invited him to come on and share his favorite foods and recipes with me. He told me he knew nothing about cooking, but he loved shrimp and Louisiana cooking so he would leave it up to me. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:"Adobe Caslon Pro"">Now, I’m no expert on Louisiana style cooking, but after trying out a few different recipes of my own I decided on this one, and he agreed that it reminded him of home. Garret and I ate these by themselves, but you can serve them as appetizers, over a salad, over grits, and pretty much anything! So I hope you enjoy them! </span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Adobe Caslon Pro""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:18.0pt;font-family:Arial"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Stuffed Shrimp Wrapped in Prosciutto </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial">2 cans crab meat (drained) <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial">1-cup Italian breadcrumbs<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial">1/3-cup mayonnaise<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial">1/4-cup ketchup<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial">2 tbsp prepared mustard<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial">2 tsp Worcestershire sauce<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial">10 jumbo shrimp, peeled and de-veined<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial">10 slices prosciutto<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial">Directions <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial">Combine first six ingredients; mix well and set aside.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial">Butterfly shrimp with a knife. Stuff shrimp with about 2 tablespoons of crab filling.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial"> Wrap entire shrimp with sliced prosciutto.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial"> Place bundles in a 13x9x2 baking dish.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial"> Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. (Any extra crab stuffing may be spooned into a greased 1/2 quart casserole and baked at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.) Serves 5.</span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-17145524925837645152010-09-30T17:30:00.000-07:002010-09-30T17:31:58.972-07:00Salty, Sweet, Tangy, Creamy Goodness!!<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black">This bacon wrap is one of my favorite appetizers. I’ve used it for years in my catering because it is so versatile and easy. I’m not really sure where I got the idea, but it encompasses every taste I would want into one small bite. Salty, sweet, tangy, creamy goodness! Mostly everyone who I offer it to has never had anything like it before and they always come back for seconds. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black">I always know when I have a winner recipe when other Chefs/cooks use them. I recently catered my friends birthday party with Jamie Spears (Brittany Spears’ dad) and he told me since the last time I cooked with him last summer he has made these Bacon Wrapped dates at all of his family gatherings and catering jobs and people just love them. So needless to say, it’s pretty cool to think that Brittany has tried and liked them. lol. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black">Much like raisins or dried Pineapple, a Date is the fruit of a “Date Palm tree” which has gone through a drying process and can be used for a number of purposes. I love snacking on them plain, just remember to take out the seed in the middle! <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black">Sometimes with this recipe I leave the blue cheese out, but I’ll leave that up to your preference. I just like the contrast of all the different flavors going on, so let me know how you like it!!! <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial;color:#7A7A7A"><b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial"><b>Bacon Wrapped Blue Cheese Dates <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial"><b>Ingredients<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial">1 pound sliced bacon, cut in half<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial">1 pound pitted dates<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial">4 ounces blue cheese<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:10.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial"><b>Directions<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial">Preheat the oven to 375 degrees <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial">Slice dates in half, and open them up. Pinch off pieces of blue cheese, and place them into the center of the dates. Close the halves of the dates, and wrap a half-slice of bacon around the outside. Secure each one with a toothpick. Arrange in a baking dish or on a baking sheet with sides to catch any grease. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the bacon is crisp. Turn dates over after the first 20 minutes for even cooking.</span><span style="font-family:Arial"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-35872994553863729002010-09-12T17:00:00.000-07:002010-10-01T10:58:56.764-07:00The "Other" Sandwich<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">I’m always trying to think of new and creative ideas for h’orderves and appetizers. Most of the time people just end up buying some frozen puff pastry style appetizers or just putting out some store bought chips and salsa. I always like turning something that has already been done into something completely different. For example, this h’orderve emulates that of a cheese sandwich, but instead of bread I use potatoes, and instead of a cows milk cheese I use a goats milk cheese. (Which my Lactose intolerant friends love) The only time consuming part of this dish is the boiling of the potatoes. And the rest you can handle pretty easily. If you do not like sour cream or lemon, of course you could substitute with another creamy sauce of your liking, but for me, that tart bite of the lemon cuts through the creamy goat cheese with that little crunch of the peppery Arugula, taking the appetizer “sandwich” to a whole new level!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Potato and Goat cheese appetizer </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">6 yellow Potatoes</p> <p class="MsoNormal">4-5 oz goat cheese</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 bunch arugula </p> <p class="MsoNormal">4 oz sour cream </p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 tbsp lemon juice </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Salt and pepper</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Boil potatoes in a large pot of water until fork tender, about 30 minutes. Be careful to not over cook so potatoes so they will keep there form when cut. Let potatoes cool. Cut potatoes width wise 1 ½ inch think. Season each side with salt and pepper. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">In a bowl, mix sour cream, lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">To assemble, crumble a piece of goat cheese on top of 1 slice of potato. Place a couple arugula leaves over top of goat cheese, and then place another slice of potato over arugula. Drizzle lemon sour cream over top, and then place a toothpick into the middle to keep the form of the h’orderve. Repeat until ingredients have been all used.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-80730300293716719982010-09-03T13:17:00.000-07:002010-09-03T13:18:54.084-07:00Fresh and Easy!<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:3.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:#333333">When you think of grilling, it’s rare that you think of dessert. Especially when it is considered fresh and healthy. I first created this recipe for my show Bikini bbq, (<a href="http://www.bikinibbqs.com">www.bikinibbqs.com</a>) and since have used it many times at daytime bqq’s and everyone has loved it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Everyone loves dessert, but during the summer, I like something that is light and easy to make. What I like about this recipe is that you can use the ingredients to your discretion, and its very hard to mess up. So I hope you enjoy this simple and healthy classic of mine that will definitely impress your guests!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:3.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:#333333"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:3.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:#333333"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; ">Sweet peaches with honey walnut sauce</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20">4 peaches, halved and cored<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20">2 tbsp. sugar<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20">1-cup yogurt<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20">1/2 cup toasted walnuts<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20">1/2 tsp. cinnamon<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20">1/2 tsp. orange zest<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20">3 tbsp. honey<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Directions </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20">1) Preheat grill.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20">2) Sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the peaches, shaking off the excess.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20">3) Grill peaches until they’re slightly soft.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20">4) In a bowl, mix together yogurt, walnuts, cinnamon, orange zest and honey.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:HelveticaNeueLTPro-Md;color:#231F20">5) Place peaches grill side up and serve yogurt mixture over top.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-45460733748540204552010-08-17T12:18:00.000-07:002010-08-17T12:23:33.554-07:00Back to Basics!<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Today I am going back to basics! Sometimes we just try to use all store bought ingredients so we can save time on making a meal, but we often forget that it can be so much more delicious and just as easy to make those store bought ingredients yourself. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I was inspired last night by going to meet some friends at Mr. Chow in Beverly Hills. Mr. Chow’s is one of the most famous restaurants in LA! Anyone whose anyone goes there, well accept for me. LOL! Out of my 6 years of living in Los Angeles, never have I been to the celebrity hot spot. Now my life is <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">finally</span> complete. Mr. Chow’s definitely lived up to its hype when I tasted the hand-made, velvety thin Chinese noodles. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">So needless to say it got me thinking. Why don’t I make my own pasta more often? Its pretty easy, not very time consuming and it is taste stands out as the center of any dish. I’m going to give you a little bit of culinary school basics. With this very basic pasta recipe, I have included a béchamel sauce, also known as “white sauce” which is one of the “mother sauces” of French cuisine, and is used in many recipes in French </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and</span></i></span><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> Italian cuisine. With combining the two recipes of pasta and sauce, your result is simple yet complex in flavor and will impress anyone who you serve it to!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Basic Pasta Dough</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Ingredients</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">4 eggs</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">3 1/2 c. flour</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Salt</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:17.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:17.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Directions</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:17.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Beat eggs. Add flour and salt and knead for 15 minutes. If you do not have a pasta machine, then roll out dough flat. Take the dough and roll it up like a jellyroll. Slice thin and unwrap it. It will make long strips of pasta. </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">OR you can use a pasta maker from a kitchen aid mixer to roll out dough faster. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Boil water with a heavy pinch of salt. Add pasta for about 5 minutes until cooked through. (fresh pasta takes a shorter amount of time to cook than pre-made pasta)</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Basic Béchamel Sauce </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Ingredients</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">5 tablespoons butter</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">4 tablespoons all-purpose flour</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">4 cups </span></span><span style=" ;font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">milk</span></span><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">2 teaspoons </span></span><span style=" ;font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">salt</span></span><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:black;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Directions</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:9.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">In a medium saucepan, heat the butter over medium-low heat until melted. Add the flour and stir until smooth. Over medium heat, cook until the mixture turns a light, golden sandy color, about 6 to 7 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the milk in a separate pan until just about to boil. Add the hot milk to the butter mixture 1 cup at a time, whisking continuously until very smooth. Bring to a boil. Cook 10 minutes, stirring constantly, then remove from heat. Season with salt and nutmeg, and set aside until ready to use.</span></span><span style="font-size:14.0pt;color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-60572468264021120752010-08-12T15:43:00.000-07:002010-08-12T15:50:23.277-07:00Red Wine Dessert<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:14.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">There are only a few times when I choose red wine over white wine. Even though red wine is much better for you, I usually go for the white because I feel like its tastes better when you are drinking it by itself. I try to find other ways to use red wine in my recipes so if I’m drinking a glass of red wine it will compliment my dish. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Studies show that 1-2 glasses of red wine a day lowers risk of heart attack for people up to 50 percent!! Red wine also has shown to help prevent blood clots and reduce the blood vessel damage caused by fat deposits. Plus it is rich source of antioxidants, which of course, is good for </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">everything</span></i></span><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">This decadent and rich dessert I have come up with can also be called healthy. A reduction of dry red wine paired with a floral, sweet honey and pouched fresh figs is paired beautifully with the same wine you cooked with. For the wine I would suggest the dry red, such as a Chianti. It is less sweet so that it doesn’t over power the honey. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">POACHED FIGS IN RED WINE AND HONEY</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">SAUCE</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:17.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1 cup dry, red wine, such as Chianti</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1-1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1/4 cup honey</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">2 cinnamon sticks</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">8 fresh figs</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">4 1oz pieces of dark chocolate (opt.)</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:17.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:17.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Directions </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Pour wine into a heavy saucepan. Dissolve flour in wine, off the heat, until fully dissolved. Transfer saucepan to stove top and cook over a medium flame.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Add honey (honey that has been warmed to a syrup-like consistency) and cinnamon sticks, and cook, until reduced by about half, approximately 8 minutes.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Reduce flame to low, and add figs so that they are standing up straight. let figs poach for about 10 minutes. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">to plate, place fig on a plate, drizzle with red wine sauce and sprinkle with chocolate pieces. ENJOY!</span></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-1184475788526670272010-08-03T15:21:00.000-07:002010-08-03T15:23:55.365-07:00Blue cheese... Yes Please!!<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Blue cheese is a cheese that people either love or hate. I happen to LOVE it and I use it in many of my dishes! I find that blue cheese adds elegance to most dishes, which I have done to simple zucchini in this dish. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Blue cheese can be either made from cow’s milk, sheep’s milk or goat’s milk. All blue cheese is made the same, a timely process of aging in controlled temperature caves and injected with </span></span><span style="font-family:Arial-ItalicMT;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Penicillium"><span style="text-decoration:none;text-underline:nonefont-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Penicillium</span></span></span></a></span><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> cultures for that blue-green veined finish result.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">In this dish I am using Gorgonzola; an Italian veined blue cheese. It adds a burst of flavor in a smooth, salty bite. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">When I’m catering or doing personal chef work I love to make this dish because I can make it early on so I can focus my attention on my main dish and my guests.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Gorgonzola zucchini Gratin </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">6 medium sized zucchini, chopped ½ inch think</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">½ onion, chopped</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">3 cloves garlic, chopped</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">2 tomatoes, chopped </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">EVOO</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1 cup Gorgonzola cheese</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">2 eggs</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1-cup milk</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">In a large shallow pan sauté onion and garlic on medium-high heat in 1-2 tbsp of EVOO until opaque. Add zucchini and tomato, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until zucchini is almost cooked through. (About 8 minutes) turn off heat and mix in ¾ cheese until creamy. Pour into an oven save dish. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt and pepper. Pour milk mixture over zucchini and top with remainder of cheese. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Bake in a 350-degree oven for 25 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:19.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-12975393946128654952010-07-27T17:20:00.000-07:002010-07-27T17:26:16.246-07:00Tequila! Tequila!!<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">TEQUILA!</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">It’s something that screams “Lets party!” I have been a big fan of Tequila, especially in the nightlife. But I feel that out of all the recipes I’ve made with Alcohol few have included Tequila. After doing a little research on it and researching the different types and flavors I’m wondering why I don’t use it in more in my cooking?? From sauces to marinades Tequila is great for adding that </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">kick </span></i></span><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">your dish may need.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I always wondered why Tequila is known as a “Mexican” liquor? It’s because Tequila is made by fermenting juice of Agave plants in Mexico. Traditionally by Mexican standards, Tequila must be distilled in pot stills to 110 proof for hours and can be repeated a number of times to ensure its clarity and pureness. Color in Tequila comes mostly from the addition of caramel; also some distillers add small amounts of natural flavorings such as Sherry, prune concentrate, and coconut to manipulate the tequila’s flavor.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">These flavors can be used in a number of dishes depending on the dish. I would recommend doing a little research on the type of Tequila to see how it matches with the dish you want to use it in, or if you don’t have the time just go for a good quality clear or gold agave tequila like I did! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I’m always looking for new and inventive ways to make chicken </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Exciting </span></i></span><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">and I think that Tequila is a great crowd pleaser for any party, in a recipe or just to drink! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Tequila Lime Chicken </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Ingredients</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/2 cup gold tequila</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1 tbsp chili powder</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1 tbsp minced fresh jalapeno pepper (seeded)</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1 tbsp minced fresh garlic (3 cloves)</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Salt and pepper </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">6 boneless chicken breasts, skin on</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Directions</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:9.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Combine the tequila, lime juice, orange juice, chili powder, jalapeno pepper, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken breasts. Refrigerate overnight.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Heat a grill and brush the rack with oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, sprinkle well with salt and pepper, and grill them skin-side down for about 5 minutes, until nicely browned. Turn the chicken and cook for another 10 minutes, until just cooked through. Remove from the grill to a plate. Cover tightly and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. </span></span><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-33847063069297139312010-07-20T11:19:00.000-07:002010-07-20T11:27:03.112-07:00SoCal Side Dish<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:#3D3D3D;">Well, its about a thousand degrees outside in Southern California, so that means swimming pools, beaches, bikini’s, outdoor grilling and fruity drinks!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>YAY! Something that is really fun for me is coming up with new, light side dishes for summer time bbq’s. When I want to get outside and enjoy my friends and the sun the last thing I want to do is slave away on side dishes, so I want to make sure I can make something fast and easy but not totally common. I find that this Grape tomato and Feta salad a great compliment for any meal. The acidity of the tomato cuts through the tart creamy Feta cheese perfectly, and is complimented by the cucumber, which gives a fresh and cooling aspect. So get outside, grill up some burgers and serve this salad and your friends will be asking you for the recipe!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;font-size:18.0pt;color:#3D3D3D;"><b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;font-size:18.0pt;color:#3D3D3D;"><b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:#3D3D3D;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Tomato and Feta Salad</span><o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:#3D3D3D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ingredients</span></span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:#3D3D3D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">4 pints grape tomatoes, red or mixed colors, halfed </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:#3D3D3D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1 large cucumber, diced ½- ¾ inch cubes</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:#3D3D3D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/4 cup good white wine vinegar</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:#3D3D3D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">6 tablespoons EVOO</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:#3D3D3D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:#3D3D3D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:#3D3D3D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1 1/2 pounds feta cheese, diced ½- ¾ inch cubes</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:#3D3D3D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Salt and pepper (to taste) </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:#3D3D3D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial-BoldMT;color:#3D3D3D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Directions</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:7.0pt;line-height:21.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;color:#3D3D3D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Add tomatoes and cucumber in a large bowl. Add the vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, basil, and parsley and toss well.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Gently fold feta cubes into the salad and serve at room temperature.</span></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-57367238585827753442010-06-30T10:22:00.000-07:002010-06-30T10:25:35.976-07:00Food and Beer<!--StartFragment--> <div class="Section1"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">When I think of backyard bbq’s I think of kicking back with your friends and family and having an ice-cold beer. I always find myself trying to pair foods with wine but sometimes forget that beer pairs fantastically with food! Now, I don’t know much about beer and food pairings but what I do know is this; when I am cooking with a particular alcohol I find it better to also be drinking it. So, lets say I'm cooking with a Sauvignon blanc white wine; I would serve that dish paired with the same wine I cooked with. I find drinking it compliments the food very nicely. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops:99.0pt"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">When my chicken wings are marinated in beer, the yeast in the beer creates a softer more tender finished product. You can pretty much use any beer of your choice, I would just recommend something that is not a “lite” beer, so the beer is stronger in flavor and can hold up against the other ingredients.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=" ;font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Beer chicken wings</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Ingredients </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> </div> <span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-USfont-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><div class="Section2"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/4-cup olive oil </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/2-cup beer</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/4-cup light soy sauce </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/8 cup lemon juice </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/2-teaspoon salt </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/4-teaspoon pepper </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/8 teaspoon ginger </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1 clove garlic, minced </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">3 to 3 1/2 lbs. chicken wings </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> </div> <span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-USfont-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Instructions </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Combine all ingredients except chicken and blend well. Rinse chicken under very cold water. Drain on paper towels. Place in large bowl or plastic bag and pour the marinade over wings. Turn all pieces to coat thoroughly. Cover tightly and refrigerate 24 hours. Place chicken skin-side up in a roasting pan. Discard excess marinade. Bake at 350 degrees until golden brown, about 1 hour. OR heat grill to medium high and grill for 30 minutes, until cooked through. </span></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-9776407662444684282010-06-22T11:05:00.000-07:002010-06-22T11:10:14.319-07:00It's Summer time!!<!--StartFragment--> <div class="Section1"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;"><b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Well it’s officially summer time! I can’t believe how fast it came! With summer time comes delicious summer time foods. There’s nothing like having a cookout at a friend’s pool or having a picnic at the beach. When it’s hot outside the last thing I want to eat is something heavy, I want fresh, colorful, light foods that won’t weigh me down when I'm in that bikini. I made these Mahi-Mahi fish tacos especially with the beach in mind. Make them at the beach, or at home to bring to the beach. Make some drinks, have a party with your friends and let them assemble their own tacos. Its much more fun to get everyone involved! <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;"><b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;"><b>Mahi-Mahi tacos with fresh mango salsa<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><b>For the Mahi-Mahi<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Ingredients</p><p class="MsoNormal">2 4 oz cuts of mahi mahi</p></div><div class="Section2"> <p class="MsoNormal">1 lemon, sliced semi thin</p> <p class="MsoNormal">4 oz dry white wine</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Salt and pepper</p> <p class="MsoNormal">2-3 tbsp butter</p> </div> <span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-USfont-family:Courier;font-size:12.0pt;"><br /></span> <div class="Section3"> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Instructions </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Lay out 2 large, square pieces of foil. Spray bottom with a non-stick spray. Season fish with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. In the center lay 2 slices of lemon. Place fish directly on top of the lemon. Cut a couple thin slices of chilled butter on fish. Place two more slices of lemon on top of that. Bring opposite sides of the foil together as if “wrapping the fish.” When you have created almost a “bag” look with the foil, before you wrap it up. Pour 2 0z white wine over fish. Place on hot grill or in 350-degree oven for about 15 minutes. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><b>For the Mango salsa<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Ingredients </p> </div> <div class="Section4"><p class="MsoNormal">2 mangos, chopped small</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 onion, chopped small</p> <p class="MsoNormal">2 tomatoes, chopped small</p> <p class="MsoNormal">½ bunch cilantro, chopped small</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Juice of 2 limes</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Salt and pepper (to your taste)</p> </div> <span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-USfont-family:Courier;font-size:12.0pt;"><br /></span> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Instructions </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Set aside.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><b>For the tortilla</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Ingredients </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Corn tortillas</p> <p class="MsoNormal">EVOO</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Instructions </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Brush EVOO over tortillas and place on hot grill for about 1-2 minutes on both sides to that tortilla has grill marks. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">To assemble, break up mahi mahi onto the center of the grilled tortilla. Top with mango salsa, and serve!</p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-81248375371672291092010-06-08T16:47:00.001-07:002010-06-08T16:52:53.156-07:00Non Crock-Pot Pot-Roast<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">On days when I have time, I like to try out new recipes. Usually I will be watching a cooking show, reading a cookbook or magazine and I will be inspired to cook! I was watching “Tyler’s Ultimate” on Food Network the other day (I freaking love that show) and he was making Pot Roast. I didn’t get to finish the show because I had to go to my Pilates class, but the idea of pot roast sounded good. Now when I think of pot roast I think of crock-pots and when I think of crock-pots I think of when I was a kid. Which sometimes isn’t such a good thing. Lol. With crock-pots you can just toss the meat and ingredients with a cooking liquid and cook. With the pot roast I made, I think it is best to sear the meat before braising because it seals in all the flavor and natural juices of the meat, and makes for a much tastier outcome. Also, instead of adding any liquid to braise, I add tomato sauce because the meat and vegetables will release there natural juices and mix with the tomato sauce to create a much thicker braising liquid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Serve this pot roast on top of flat egg noodles and it is easy and delicious! </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Pot Roast </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">3 ½ lbs Beef chuck</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 onion, rough chopped</p> <p class="MsoNormal">2 parsnips, peeled and thick sliced</p> <p class="MsoNormal">2 carrots, peeled and thick sliced</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 lb small red potatoes</p> <p class="MsoNormal">3 cloves garlic, peeled</p> <p class="MsoNormal">3 sprigs fresh thyme</p> <p class="MsoNormal">3 sprigs fresh rosemary</p> <p class="MsoNormal">3 sprigs fresh Oregano</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 can traditional tomato sauce</p> <p class="MsoNormal">EVOO</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Salt and pepper</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">I</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">nstructions </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Season both sides of beef chuck with a few heavy pinches of salt and pepper. In a large, deep pot, heat about 3 tbsp of EVOO on high heat. Sear Beef chuck on both sides so that a brown crust forms. (About 5 minutes per side) </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Add all vegetables and herbs, cover with tomato sauce. Cover pot with a lid, and reduce heat to low. Let simmer and cook for about 3 hours. </p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-41945165385528565822010-05-27T16:21:00.000-07:002010-05-27T16:26:33.706-07:00Hush Puppies for the healthier eater<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">When you think of comfort food what comes to mind? Almost anything fattening and that really sucks. When it’s cold and rainy outside a nice big salad is the last thing I want. I want some comforting foods like Mac’ and cheese, fried chicken, casseroles, etc. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Now if you are from the south (which I am not) you have eaten a few Hush Puppies in your life. They are delicious! Perfect little fried bit sized fried balls of carbohydrates. How American is that? The first time I made these delectable little morsels I was in culinary school and I was surprised how easy they were to make. In the last couple years I have been trying to recreate classic comfort foods in a healthier way and these Hush Puppies are one of them.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: bold; font-size:18px;">BAKED HUSH PUPPIES</span></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">Ingredients</span></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1 c. cornmeal</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1 c. gluten free flour</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1 tsp. sugar</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">3 tsp. baking powder</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1 tsp. salt</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">3/4 c. fat free milk</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">2 beaten eggs</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1/4 c. chopped onion</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1/4 c. melted butter</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">½ cup low fat shredded cheddar cheese</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:17.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Instructions<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:17.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; ">Sift dry ingredients together. Add remaining ingredients and stir only until blended. Place approximately 1 tablespoon batter into well-greased small muffin tin wells. Place muffin pans on sheet of aluminum the size of the pan to prevent over browning. Bake in hot oven, 425 degrees, for 15-20 minutes. Makes 44 hush puppies.</span></span></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Typically Hush Puppies are fried but if you wanted to you could do the same with this recipe. But I baked them because you save hundreds of calories this way and to me they are just as good. Also, lately I've been trying to stay away from gluten, a protein found in grains such as wheat, rye, and barley, because it damages the lining of the small intestine, leading to the body’s inability to absorb essential nutrients and vitamins. This can slow your metabolism and prevent weight loss. No bueno! There are many foods in your local grocery store that come “Gluten free” now. I used “gluten free” flour in this recipe. By simply using lower fat ingredients such as fat free milk and low fat cheese you can cut calories significantly. </span></span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-47785149655879129122010-05-19T17:16:00.000-07:002010-05-19T17:25:45.712-07:00Sometimes Braising is better!<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">If there is one thing I can avoid when cooking, that is making the meal a long process. Maybe I am impatient, or just plain hungry! So I can usually whip something up in a jiff! However, there are times when I want to take time with my meal and plan ahead. I like having something that is slow cooked and deep in flavor.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">You know when you go to Mexican restaurants and they serve that really yummy-shredded beef? Well that beef has been cooking in liquid for hours, a process called “braising.” Braising the meat makes it able to shred effortlessly.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">How do you choose a beef for braising? Well, you can pretty much braise anything but the kitchen sink in any kind of liquid, but what is great about braising is that you can use the cheapest beef!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Forget the 13 dollars per pound Filet Minion. I usually go with the beef chuck, or the beef shoulder. These cuts are the toughest, making the tenderizing braising process perfect!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Lindsay’s Mexican Braised Beef</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients:</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">4 lbs Beef chuck, cubed </p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 onion</p> <p class="MsoNormal">4 dried ancho chilies, soaked for 15 minutes, seeds removed</p> <p class="MsoNormal">6 oz tomato paste</p> <p class="MsoNormal">3 cloves garlic</p> <p class="MsoNormal">2-3 cups water</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Directions:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Season cubed beef with salt and pepper. In a large, deep pot, brown beef. In a food processor, blend onion, chili, tomato paste and garlic. Add to pot and submerge beef mixture with 2-3 cups water. Simmer and braise for 2 hours until beef is tender and liquid is reduced by half. Shred beef in pot with 2 forks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">With my braised beef recipe, I combine Mexican flavors with my own Lindsay twist that can be paired with many other foods. I like to use them in tacos. I lightly fry up a few corn tortillas, make a little salsa by combining chopped tomatoes, cilantro, corn, lemon juice, salt and pepper, and topped off with some sliced avocado. To assemble, put a couple spoon fill’s of beef on the tortilla, top with corn salsa and avocado, and your taste buds will be in heaven! </p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-84435509384120869192010-05-10T14:50:00.000-07:002010-05-10T17:58:12.475-07:00"Fig Tree Cafe" in Venice beach<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(52, 52, 52); font-family:verdana;font-size:10px;"> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I don’t think I've ever met anyone who doesn’t like the beach, and living in Los Angeles, California, we have some great ones! Depending on the kind of beach experience you want to have dictates the beach you go to. If you want to go to a high-end area beach, you can go to Malibu Colony’s beach, or if you want a little low key but fun beach you can go to Santa Monica. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">This past weekend while dropping off my boyfriend at his weekly football game in Venice, my friend Ashley and I decided that we would layout and catch some rays at the Venice beach. The weather was a beautiful 78 degrees without a cloud in the sky. The boardwalk was packed with its usual colorful characters, almost like the beach version of Hollywood blvd. As we wondered down the boardwalk, observing the interesting shops and street performers, delicious smells of foods came from every corner restaurant. After looking at the specials and menu’s from a few different restaurants, we resided at a place called “Fig Tree Café.” Sort of a breakfast all day kind of place. Famished, we quickly try to order, but the service was off to a bad start, but the waitress finally came to take our order.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I ordered the “Goat cheese, Caramelized onion, and shitake mushroom scramble, with potato pancakes” and, because I deserve it, a glass of champagne! Now I'm not kidding when I say that that was the best scramble I have ever had!! I mean, the ingredients were simple and pretty basic, but something about the creamy and tangy goat cheese, with the sweet caramelized onions and the smooth, chewy shitake mushrooms all together were DELIcIOUS!! Not to mention, there glass of champagne was HUGE!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">All in all, I thought the ambiance of the café was relaxing with a view of being right on the beach, and it was very entertaining as the traffic of people from all walks of life passed by. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p> <!--EndFragment--> </span>lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-24889688624263034062010-04-23T14:40:00.000-07:002010-04-23T14:44:07.352-07:00Lettuce wraps- my favorite type of salad!<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">Typically I don’t like diets, especially “fad” diets (and Los Angeles is full of them) but my diet that I've been doing for the past 2 weeks has left me feeling great! I feel like I can leap buildings! Save the world! And…. Well maybe not so much, but I do feel like I have a lot more energy and don’t crave sweets and carbs, and I love my sweets! Especially when I'm baking them. This Tuna Tar-tar lettuce wrap recipe is something that I came up with last minute when I catered a party. I needed to have an appetizer salad and I didn’t just want to do a plain old chopped salad. I like more unique ideas, and it just so happened that this salad is very healthy and fits my diet! (Minus the fried tortillas.. lol) serve this at any kind of occasion. It makes for a great meal, or appetizer, and you don’t care about being too healthy, Scoop tuna onto a cracker. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Let me know what you think! </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt"><u> <o:p></o:p></u></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt"><u>Tuna tar-tar lettuce wraps<o:p></o:p></u></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt"><u> <o:p></o:p></u></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><u>Ingredients<o:p></o:p></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal">8 oz raw sushi quality tuna cut in ½ inch cubes</p> <p class="MsoNormal">1 orange pepper, ½ inch dice</p> <p class="MsoNormal">3 tbsp fresh lemon juice</p> <p class="MsoNormal">2 tbsp sesame oil</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Salt and pepper (to taste)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">2 heads butter lettuce, (or mini romaine lettuce) stalks removed and washed</p> <p class="MsoNormal">3 flour tortillas, thinly sliced </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Canola oil</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><u>Directions<o:p></o:p></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In a large bowl, mix first 5 ingredients. Set aside. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Heat 1-2 cups of canola oil in a deep pot over high heat (or use deep fryer) fry tortilla strips for about 2 minutes. Remove onto a paper towel covered plate, season with salt and pepper immediately. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">To assemble, place 1 piece of lettuce onto a plate, scoop-desired amount of tuna mixture into lettuce cup. Sprinkle fried tortilla strips over tuna. Garnish with a drizzle of lemon. Repeat until tuna is gone. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6707406668942676707.post-13608291791226663832010-04-20T10:03:00.000-07:002010-04-20T12:23:49.640-07:00Gazpacho! -the forgotten soup<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">I don’t know why, but lately I have been obsessed with coming up with delicious and healthy new soups. I have noticed that for the most part people usually stick to a few familiar “hot” soups such as, tomato, chicken noodle, etc. One thing that I always feel is left out of the “soup” category is Gazpacho! Gazpacho is a cold or room temperature vegetable soup, typically a Spanish tomato based cold soup… but who’s judging! This is my blog and I’ll call my cold soup recipe whatever I want! Lol. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">Unless you are planning on going to some upscale restaurant where you are going to spend an arm and a leg to eat a tiny bowl of gazpacho, you will not typically find it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Chances are, you will only find traditional hot soup at a lunch café or chain restaurant. I recommend making this Avocado soup recipe because 1. I've never had it in a restaurant. 2. It’s great for diets and is less than 300 calories per serving. 3. You can keep in cold in your refrigerator for up to 5 days and eat whenever you are hungry. 4. Avocado’s contain nearly 20 vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients, and is considered a “super fruit.” 4. I only make great soups!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">So anyways, here it is!! Hope you like it, and if you make any of my recipes, feed back people, feed back! Lol<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">Avocado soup</span></span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> Ingredients </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">2 cups fat-free, less sodium chicken broth<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">2 avocados, chopped<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">1 cup water<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">1 cup rinsed and drained navy beans<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">½ cup fat-free plain yogurt<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">1 ½ tbsp fresh lemon juice<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">¼ tsp Tabasco <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">1 small jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial;">salt and pepper (to taste)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">¼ cup queso fresco (optional as garnish)<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> Directions</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;color:black;">Add all ingredients (accept queso) in a food processor or blender. Process until smooth, scraping the sides. To serve, distribute evenly into 4 bowls. Sprinkle quaso cheese over top. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->lindsaysbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15878592397514242526noreply@blogger.com0