tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86185456332317965332024-03-12T23:09:42.644-07:00Alabama NestAshleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-65662865648625907262011-11-13T17:49:00.000-08:002011-11-13T17:59:31.245-08:00Rachael Ray Rave!I had a chance to watch Rachel Ray's show on Friday morning and she made these burgers. {oh my goodness}<br /><br />They looked like heaven.<br /><br />What I thought was onions sticking out of the patty was actually spaghetti.<br /><br />Yep, she made spaghetti burgers.<br /><br />So you know I had to haul butt to the store to make these yummy monsters. I've included the recipe below with my tweaks.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rachel Ray's Spaghetti and Meatball Burgers</span><br /><h4>Ingredients</h4> <ul><li class="first-child"> Salt</li><li class="second-child"> 1/4 pound spaghetti</li></ul> <p> For the sauce: (I took the easy way and used spaghetti sauce instead)<br /></p> <ul><li> 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)</li><li> 2 tablespoons butter</li><li> 2 cloves garlic, chopped</li><li> 1/2 small white onion, peeled</li><li> 1 bay leaf</li><li> 2 cups tomato purée</li><li> 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano <i>or</i> marjoram</li><li> A few leaves torn basil</li><li> Salt and pepper</li><li> A pinch crushed red pepper flakes</li></ul> <p> For the meatball burgers:</p> <ul><li> 1 1/2 pounds beef chuck (I used turkey)<br /></li><li> Salt and pepper</li><li> 2 1-inch slices white bread, crusts trimmed (I used breadcrumbs)<br /></li><li> 3/4 cup whole milk (omitted)<br /></li><li> 2-3 tablespoons flat leaf parsley, finely chopped</li><li> 1/3 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, (a heavy handful)</li><li> 1 egg, beaten</li><li> 2 cloves garlic, grated <em>or </em>pasted (I used minced)<br /></li><li> Olive oil, for frying</li><li> 8 slices deli-sliced provolone <em>or </em>mozzarella cheese</li></ul> <p> For the garlic bread rolls:</p> <ul><li> 4 crusty rolls, split, such as ciabatta <i>or</i> plain Kaiser rolls</li><li> 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)</li><li> 2 tablespoons butter (omitted)<br /></li><li> 1 clove garlic, crushed (omitted)<br /></li><li> 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (omitted)<br /></li><li> 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (used unfresh spice rack)<br /></li><li class="last-child"> 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese</li></ul><div class="unit size1of2"> <div class="mod prep prm"> <h4>Preparation</h4> <p> Bring a medium size pot of water to a boil for the pasta. Season the water with salt, break the pasta in half and cook to al dente; drain and cool. Reserve.<br /> <br /> In a small saucepot, heat the EVOO and melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and stir a couple of minutes; add the onion, bay leaf, tomatoes, oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper and simmer at low bubble for 20 minutes. Remove the onion and bay leaf.<br /> <br /> Place the beef in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Soak the bread in milk; then squeeze out the liquid, crumble and add it to meat. Add the parsley, cheese, egg, garlic and the reserved cold pasta.</p> <p> Form the mixture into four large burgers – let the pasta stick out from sides. Heat a thin and even layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through and crispy. Douse the burgers with sauce and melt the cheese. Turn off the heat.<br /> <br /> For the rolls, broil the bread to lightly toast. Microwave or heat the EVOO, butter and crushed garlic. Brush the toasted bread and top with the herbs and cheese; broil 1 minute to set the cheese. Serve the meatball burgers on rolls and top with more sauce.</p> </div> </div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-50090289115290718222011-11-11T14:29:00.000-08:002011-11-11T14:36:14.342-08:00Soups On Ya'll<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEianrVdGC3XaB_-xEr0SOO4xltGnmEhtcrP4Gka4R9nGCB1CUeEEabUYnytYPJ0FFG-wpsmadCS-FAm9xdonZUIcK-H-OxakeJZMmA-gLrp28DynJKIyDAYia2hEDDX5bCwJM9P8ReFlM8/s1600/6274947569_7b391e3c38_o.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 218px; height: 155px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEianrVdGC3XaB_-xEr0SOO4xltGnmEhtcrP4Gka4R9nGCB1CUeEEabUYnytYPJ0FFG-wpsmadCS-FAm9xdonZUIcK-H-OxakeJZMmA-gLrp28DynJKIyDAYia2hEDDX5bCwJM9P8ReFlM8/s320/6274947569_7b391e3c38_o.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673869764268929618" border="0" /></a>It's actually <span style="font-style: italic;">chilly</span> here in south Alabama. Um, not sure what happened. I guess Mother Nature needs to be reminded that this is the beach.<br /><br />Since things aren't likely to change, food must be prepared with the weather in mind.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">{Lucky us!}</span><br /><br />Tonight we'll have Corn and Cheese Chowder from the Pioneer Woman. Head to her <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/10/corn-cheese-chowder/">Web site</a> and grab the napkins. You will drool.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Corn and Cheese Chowder</span><br /><h4><span style="font-weight: normal;">You'll need:</span><br /></h4> <ul><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">4 Tablespoons</span><span itemprop="name"> 1/2 Stick Butter</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 whole</span><span itemprop="name"> Onion, Chopped</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">3 slices</span><span itemprop="name"> Bacon, Cut Into Pieces</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">3 whole</span><span itemprop="name"> Bell Peppers, Finely Diced (red, Yellow, Orange)</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">5 ears</span><span itemprop="name"> Corn, Kernels Sliced Off</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/4 cup</span><span itemprop="name"> All-purpose Flour</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">3 cups</span><span itemprop="name"> Chicken Stock Or Broth</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 cups</span><span itemprop="name"> Half-and-half</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 cup</span><span itemprop="name"> (heaping) Grated Monterey Jack</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 cup</span><span itemprop="name"> (heaping) Pepper Jack</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/3 cup</span><span itemprop="name"> Sliced Green Onions</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount"> </span><span itemprop="name"> Bread Bowls (optional)<br /></span></span></li></ul> <h4><span style="font-weight: normal;">Let's start:</span><br /></h4> <div itemprop="instructions"> <p>In a large pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Cook onions for a couple of minutes. Add bacon and cook for another minute or so, then add diced bell peppers and cook for a couple of minutes. Finally, add corn and cook for a minute. </p> <p>Sprinkle flour evenly over the top and stir to combine. Pour in broth and stir well. Allow this to thicken for 3 or 4 minutes, then reduce heat to low. Stir in half-and-half, then cover and allow to simmer/thicken for 15 minutes or so. </p> <p>Stir in cheeses and green onions. When cheese is melted and the soup is hot, check seasonings. Add salt and pepper as needed. </p> <p>Ladle into hollowed out bowls and serve immediately.</p> </div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-86746552727741429412011-10-17T09:00:00.000-07:002011-10-17T09:00:01.555-07:00Gift- Glass Garden Globe & PlantWhat a great {<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">gift</span><span style="font-style: italic;">}</span> for someone who love all things environmental.<br /><br />It would be great at home, or in an office.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://gifts.redenvelope.com/gifts/glass-garden-globe--plant-30059921?ref=REDorganicgglbrand_redenvelope&tile=hmpg_tile_a&trackingpgroup=rhmbs"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 238px; height: 315px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70JhiXbQH6YX3d73BTI7UMZuuaqhA4z9Ickp_hCriia4-4-PP0zDCgMGtw5K0qa6MbcgGhXDJS-YXq-7ZaQCHVXEesCnFcJIc00r3Zb5GZnuFBQIuhsu_CXH1AUI4q65MS76EANwF8r8/s320/GA_11_GEN_PL400936_W1_RC.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664094373717228498" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />It's $29.99 and can be purchased via <a href="http://gifts.redenvelope.com/gifts/glass-garden-globe--plant-30059921?ref=REDorganicgglbrand_redenvelope&tile=hmpg_tile_a&trackingpgroup=rhmbs">Redenvelope.com.</a> Per their Web site,<br /><br /><span class="regularfont cmfproductdescfont"><span id="productDetailBodyD_longDescription_description" border="0" itemprop="description">The air plant derives all its nutrients from the air, giving it a somewhat miraculous, ethereal quality. Our glass globe comes with everything needed to plant and suspend individual succulents in mid-air. Whether displayed alone or in multiples, their modern textures and pops of green make the globes intriguing pieces of living sculpture. <ul><li>glass globe, sand, pebbles and 1 air plant</li><li>includes all the elements needed to make a living ornament</li><li>includes care and instruction guide</li><li>9" diam.</li></ul>Item #30059921</span></span>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-27871769821813667482011-10-09T18:56:00.000-07:002011-10-16T07:15:08.740-07:00Cream Cheese with a Little SpaghettiMajor drool-fest after finding {<span style="font-style: italic;">this</span>} on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com">Pinterest</a>.<br /><br />Oh my yes. Please.<br /><br />I made it last week with a few tweaks (more spices and mini meatballs).<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO42UjUdflk37OFTwKMOG32xxA_xCfRvLaFyO0N2f0QssACnzeEzAZoNGdTPiSeWXRef-E0S7t9dw-3vg8OzqDCzkyEz0mc0WdorBCtqkaBHzCHQYaZg-FhdlDUnS_VZEm-_xs1Ehto5g/s1600/bswcc.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO42UjUdflk37OFTwKMOG32xxA_xCfRvLaFyO0N2f0QssACnzeEzAZoNGdTPiSeWXRef-E0S7t9dw-3vg8OzqDCzkyEz0mc0WdorBCtqkaBHzCHQYaZg-FhdlDUnS_VZEm-_xs1Ehto5g/s320/bswcc.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664091860219259810" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span class="summary"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese</span> (<a href="http://www.salad-in-a-jar.com/family-recipes/scooters-spaghetti">credit</a>)<br /><br /></span> <div class="ERIngredientsHeader">You'll need<br /></div> <ul class="ingredients"><li class="ingredient">8 ounces uncooked spaghetti</li><li class="ingredient">1 large can spaghetti sauce (26.5 ounces)</li><li class="ingredient">1 can mushrooms (small can)<br /></li><li class="ingredient">1 tsp oregano</li><li class="ingredient">1 tsp garlic powder</li><li class="ingredient">1 tsp basil<br /></li><li class="ingredient">4 ounces cream cheese (you can use 8 ounces if you prefer)<br /></li><li class="ingredient">2 tablespoons milk</li><li class="ingredient">Fresh grated Parmesan cheese</li></ul> <div class="ERInstructionsHeader">Let's start<br /></div> <div class="instructions"> <ol><li class="instruction">Cook spaghetti according to directions on the package. Cook to al dente, drain and set aside.</li><li class="instruction">Soften cream cheese in microwave.<br /></li><li class="instruction">Add milk, basil, oregano, garlic, and mushrooms. Stir well.</li><li class="instruction">Using a 10 x 6 dish, assemble in the following order:</li><li class="instruction">Thin layer of spaghetti sauce on the bottom of the casserole dish.</li><li class="instruction">Spaghetti</li><li class="instruction">Cream cheese/mushroom mixture</li><li class="instruction">Spaghetti sauce</li><li class="instruction">Parmesan Cheese (amount subject to your own taste)</li><li class="instruction">Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.<br /></li></ol> </div>Enjoy!<br /><br /><div></div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-65313745509558099522011-09-26T09:00:00.000-07:002011-09-26T09:00:01.927-07:00Dining EtiquetteI know the holidays are coming, and just in case you want to do a formal setting for a work or family party, this should cover just about everything.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVO-yGxgHFaAiYoB0H04pyY-X60oE3kfRI9opW3AgtzE3GgTq4t7Rm4NdXD1oq6prAyNMKWn3i0VNjkeEQttr61KElUpL4-H7kFwH8t_SyG68TA7CC-P6rJfwE_uCOZAGurEquTq7gheI/s1600/dining+etiquette.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 252px; height: 363px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVO-yGxgHFaAiYoB0H04pyY-X60oE3kfRI9opW3AgtzE3GgTq4t7Rm4NdXD1oq6prAyNMKWn3i0VNjkeEQttr61KElUpL4-H7kFwH8t_SyG68TA7CC-P6rJfwE_uCOZAGurEquTq7gheI/s320/dining+etiquette.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5656050929771485906" border="0" /></a>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-7061345052229099292011-09-20T09:00:00.000-07:002011-09-20T09:00:11.269-07:00Onion Baked Sweet PotatoesWe had a visitor this week at my house and she brought her recipes with her! Yahoo!<br /><br />She makes the best sweet potatoes, and I'm not even a fan of the vegetable! Yes, I've had the sweet potato casserole, but it wasn't that tasty.<br /><br />Until she made these! Cannot. Get. Enough.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRURPTk1ACXDmTa92S9jnPrEu0z_YXhgafiohdpL-aB1FCdE0OJQpeZhzQWIM2MssmpvXu9-LDpU9f4qJ3FqdS-ha4nsLn8PxhaASDEENu0Nyyn5GBhPnw7SDfnb2SzTCGt8zw9th0fl0/s1600/sweetpotato.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 112px; height: 126px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRURPTk1ACXDmTa92S9jnPrEu0z_YXhgafiohdpL-aB1FCdE0OJQpeZhzQWIM2MssmpvXu9-LDpU9f4qJ3FqdS-ha4nsLn8PxhaASDEENu0Nyyn5GBhPnw7SDfnb2SzTCGt8zw9th0fl0/s320/sweetpotato.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653780647350666626" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_hE5Aej1pYHdiztzCPmKpsR97M2UM40goWTFEzY6lrdzT8Fm4lRnpp-pA3uGhjy1-_PPx18mw_5cpV85JM_0Tq5RorbVSs4F3J1izufQUoao3fPAKYq1rClvs_DVbXmZYaTJlOiyA6rQ/s1600/onionsoupmix.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 128px; height: 128px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_hE5Aej1pYHdiztzCPmKpsR97M2UM40goWTFEzY6lrdzT8Fm4lRnpp-pA3uGhjy1-_PPx18mw_5cpV85JM_0Tq5RorbVSs4F3J1izufQUoao3fPAKYq1rClvs_DVbXmZYaTJlOiyA6rQ/s320/onionsoupmix.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653781851580768802" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />It was super easy, healthy, and very delicious.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Onion Baked Sweet Potatoes</span><br /><br />You'll need:<br />* 4 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 in. cubes<br />* 1 packed dried onion soup mix<br />* 1/2 cup olive oil<br /><br />Let's start:<br />1. Preheat oven to 350.<br />2. Mix sweet potatoes with olive oil and soup mix. Coat each potato thoroughly.<br />3. Add to baking sheet so that potatoes are in one layer.<br />4. Bake for 35-45 minutes or until brown and easily cut.<br /><br />Serve as a side dish to beef, chicken, or pork.Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-45391860451350294142011-09-19T09:00:00.000-07:002011-09-19T09:00:05.596-07:00Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip CookiesThese are a staple near the Halloween/Thanksgiving holiday at my house. I always get such praise for them! Keep in mind that these are more "cake cookie." Serve them with ice cold milk for an after dinner treat or bed time snack.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0drQvP30mvSxQTIgMLFue65YopffIvoq5cYN3GTNBUP14S0PEQ1nBF2cIZRTmSBT2YO5f9fXkdMlO-Acf0zLXPJ_muXfQTRcT611zTa_1El1mnSfvJMHt4TLRCBIjl5waanRkVRBbh3w/s1600/pumpkin+cookies.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 140px; height: 140px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0drQvP30mvSxQTIgMLFue65YopffIvoq5cYN3GTNBUP14S0PEQ1nBF2cIZRTmSBT2YO5f9fXkdMlO-Acf0zLXPJ_muXfQTRcT611zTa_1El1mnSfvJMHt4TLRCBIjl5waanRkVRBbh3w/s320/pumpkin+cookies.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653777775799901906" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">You'll need:</span><br /><ul><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1 cup canned pumpkin</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1 cup white sugar</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1/2 cup vegetable oil</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1 egg</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 2 cups all-purpose flour</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 2 teaspoons baking powder</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1 teaspoon ground cinnamon</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice<br /></li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1/2 teaspoon salt</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1 teaspoon baking soda</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1 teaspoon milk</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1 tablespoon vanilla extract</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 2 cups white chocolate chips</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Let's start:</span><br /><ol><li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> Combine pumpkin, sugar, vegetable oil, and egg. In a separate bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Dissolve the baking soda with the milk and stir in. Add flour mixture to pumpkin mixture and mix well. </span></li><li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> Add vanilla, white chocolate chips and nuts. </span></li><li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> Drop by spoonful on greased cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for approximately 10 minutes or until lightly brown and firm. </span></li></ol>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-57603489725481368212011-09-18T11:53:00.000-07:002011-09-18T12:01:42.446-07:00I Can Freeze That?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPqnMuW0TfO13nmJ6LwL5AF-Rl44tRHFU84Kne0y-oLfHrR2j52XlRubcfYBJ8-AsLKejjmqFOMw-GoDjH0dYOTuKD01sxje1iabZAwrGRTc7hfBbXDOuO0vTKo-_xWECH9rTZwaFoxQQ/s1600/Eggs.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 180px; height: 135px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPqnMuW0TfO13nmJ6LwL5AF-Rl44tRHFU84Kne0y-oLfHrR2j52XlRubcfYBJ8-AsLKejjmqFOMw-GoDjH0dYOTuKD01sxje1iabZAwrGRTc7hfBbXDOuO0vTKo-_xWECH9rTZwaFoxQQ/s320/Eggs.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653776561486708050" border="0" /></a>Sorry I've been absent, a friend was in town so we had to shop, eat, and go to the beach. *smile*<br /><br />6 Things You Probably Didn't Know you Can Freeze (from Better Homes & Gardens, Oct. 2009)<br /><br />1. Eggs- Lightly beaten eggs, beaten yolks, or whites can be frozen, but not an egg in its shell. Store in lidded ice cube trays (one egg fills two cubes).<br /><br />2. Cooked Rice- Spread cooled rice on a lined baking sheet. Rub with small amount of vegetable oil so grains separate. Freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.<br /><br />3. Ginger Root- Wrap peeled ginger in plastic, then put in freezer bag. Ginger grates well while still frozen.<br /><br />4. Cheese- Cut hard (parmesan, pecorino) and semi-hard cheeses (cheddar, swiss) into 1/4 inch blocks, wrap in plastic, then put in freezer bag. Grate hard cheeses while frozen, thaw others in refrigerator.<br /><br />5. Butter or margarine- Store in a freezer bag, in its original packaging for up to six months. Thaw in refrigerator. Don't freeze whipped butter.<br /><br />6. Nuts- Store in airtight container or freezer bag for up to six weeks. Use right from freezer for recipes- no need to thaw.Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-43397203481571118762011-09-09T10:00:00.000-07:002011-09-09T10:19:26.782-07:00That Pretty FlowerI found this little tutorial about changing an ordinary pencil into a colorful statement on the Pioneer Woman's <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/homeschooling/2011/09/duct-tape-flower-pencils/">web site</a>. If you haven't been, you are really missing out.<br /><br />If you have any extra duct tape around, this is a perfect project for the kiddo's.<br /><br />She <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">starts</span> with this,<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggTfu9vB9WdtkIjseFFz_JCNGd70EoRphAMGlGeWeP342rJzKxCQOfBpBshoE3UQ7YFTYqpRJ2EpEAht3GPdRjqs2jqAXkdXec9E-eGApsfuPehdmRP0ZC-5vHVArGFMRHAAeZOq9M2bU/s1600/pencil.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 184px; height: 123px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggTfu9vB9WdtkIjseFFz_JCNGd70EoRphAMGlGeWeP342rJzKxCQOfBpBshoE3UQ7YFTYqpRJ2EpEAht3GPdRjqs2jqAXkdXec9E-eGApsfuPehdmRP0ZC-5vHVArGFMRHAAeZOq9M2bU/s320/pencil.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650407397899510962" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />And <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">ends</span> with this!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg2CkDK0MZdljj8fbs0qRxXk2NUAMzutHbtHdotYfRyiWuE-7TMdI7I9c6WHC9oYAqlSDLeGk_B6jlrRF322kO3vgdjFYQrQyf74GwcggkpvTqZQRUK5OycCCJ60WB7N3zFf5rgzEfXQE/s1600/pencil+flower2.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 179px; height: 118px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg2CkDK0MZdljj8fbs0qRxXk2NUAMzutHbtHdotYfRyiWuE-7TMdI7I9c6WHC9oYAqlSDLeGk_B6jlrRF322kO3vgdjFYQrQyf74GwcggkpvTqZQRUK5OycCCJ60WB7N3zFf5rgzEfXQE/s320/pencil+flower2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650407412955334402" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLjdUA0taDTJ3LzkeGWRdVw04rFv8YAxUslxQd47zhrBaz36KjDePQTSB6tUQjtvWBjsm0wfHByCd5FpBmMSg2vVGJvFswig96CXLkKcVC5VEw1-X8bXPMQ3xSaQNWLu5zu7CwjshnGDo/s1600/pencil+flower.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 184px; height: 123px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLjdUA0taDTJ3LzkeGWRdVw04rFv8YAxUslxQd47zhrBaz36KjDePQTSB6tUQjtvWBjsm0wfHByCd5FpBmMSg2vVGJvFswig96CXLkKcVC5VEw1-X8bXPMQ3xSaQNWLu5zu7CwjshnGDo/s320/pencil+flower.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650407405969458210" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Nice!Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-4657634617282314232011-09-07T09:00:00.000-07:002011-09-07T09:00:02.266-07:00Mac and Cheese? Yes Please!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw4Xt_70b2YPMlcwXOqg6zuGrDrEnGYzL5UjiodQxbqmdb_wHHv-dL2Tt7A7v9sYFOLXlm1d5z3bqRU7HBt9P_4eJSIAfcvfQCUtp7YpkRmHdI5GQPJjZcYP4UIwlRA9tOc0fvsUVWs14/s1600/maccheese.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw4Xt_70b2YPMlcwXOqg6zuGrDrEnGYzL5UjiodQxbqmdb_wHHv-dL2Tt7A7v9sYFOLXlm1d5z3bqRU7HBt9P_4eJSIAfcvfQCUtp7YpkRmHdI5GQPJjZcYP4UIwlRA9tOc0fvsUVWs14/s320/maccheese.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649403712517799954" border="0" /></a>One of my favorite foods of all time is macaroni and cheese. It's great as a side dish or as a stand alone comfort food.<br /><br />While browsing through <a href="http://www.bhg.com/recipes/printRecipe.jsp?recipeId=R169846&catref=rcbhg1">Better Homes and Gardens</a> I found a really great recipe for an Italian mac and cheese.<br /><br />I've never made Italian mac and cheese, but it sounds super fab with the 40 types of cheese and butter and milk goodness!<br /><br />Yes please!<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Donatella's Italian Mac and Cheese</span></span><br /><br />You'll need:<br /><div id="ingredients"><style type="text/css">p { margin-bottom: 0.08in; }</style> <ul><li>1 lb elbow macaroni</li><li>3 large egg whites </li><li>1/2 cup unsalted butter plus more for greasing bowls </li><li>1/2 a medium onion, finely chopped </li><li>1/3 cup all-purpose flour </li><li>3.5 cups whole milk </li><li>1 bay leaf </li><li>1 sprig fresh thyme </li><li>9 whole black peppercorns </li><li>1 to 2 tsp. kosher salt </li><li>1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg </li><li>1 8-oz. carton mascarpone cheese </li><li>6 oz. Taleggio or Muenster cheese (rind removed), diced </li><li>6 oz. Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, grated </li><li>6 oz. Pecorino Romano, coarsely grated </li><li>1 cup Garlic Bread Crumbs </li><li>Truffle oil and fresh thyme (optional) </li></ul> </div>Let's start:<br />1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Butter ten to twelve 10-oz. ovenproof bowls or ramekins; set aside. <p><b>2.</b> Bring a large pot of water with 1 tablespoon of salt to boiling. Add pasta, stir just until water returns to boiling. Cook pasta according to package directions just until tender to the bite (al dente). Drain, shaking well. Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl beat egg whites with electric mixer to stiff peaks. </p> <p><b>3.</b> In Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add onion and cook until softened. Sprinkle the flour over onion; stir constantly for 2 minutes (do no allow flour to brown). A little at a time, add 1 cup of the milk, stirring constantly until smooth. </p> <p><b>4.</b> For an herb bundle, in an 8-inch square double-thickness of cheesecloth, place the bay leaf, thyme, and peppercorns. Gather corners and tie with 100% cotton string. Add herb bundle to Dutch oven 1 to 2 teaspoons of salt and remaining 2 1/2 cups of milk. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to boiling, stirring frequently (do not let the mixture boil over). Boil for 1 minute; reduce heat to low so milk barely simmers. Cook, stirring frequently, for 10 minutes more. Remove from heat; let stand for 5 minutes. Remove and discard herb bundle. Immediately stir in plenty of ground blackpepper, the nutmeg, and the cheeses. Stir just until cheeses are melted. </p> <p><b>5.</b> Stir cooked macaroni into cheese mixture. Fold in beaten egg whites. Spoon mac and cheese into prepared bowls. Top with Garlic Bread Crumbs. </p> <p><b>6.</b> Bake for 15 minutes or until heated through (160°F) and crumbs are toasted. To serve, top with truffle oil and fresh thyme. </p> <p>Garlic Bread Crumbs: In a food processor, process 5 oz. (3 thick slices) country-style white bread, crusts removed, to coarse crumbs. Transfer to a bowl. Toss with 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp. salt; and 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper. Add 2 1/2 Tbsp. olive oil. With a rubber spatula, work oil into the crumbs. </p> <div id="nutritionFacts" class="MB10"> <span class="heading4">Enjoy! :)<br /></span></div>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-36272561582184828712011-09-06T16:24:00.000-07:002011-09-06T17:00:02.903-07:00Sweater EnvyI had a little taste of the unusual while driving through Alabama this weekend... cold weather. It will soon be here and if you are anything like me, you have a ton of <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">sweaters</span>. You know the one; the one that goes with everything, the sweater that is perfect with jeans, or the one that keeps you warm at the football game. But do you really know how to <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">take care of it</span>? I thought I did until reading an article in Woman's Day magazine.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Before you begin</span>: Check the label for the garment’s fabric content, rather than the care instructions. Even if the label says “dry clean,” you can handwash it if the primary fiber is wool or cashmere.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiARuIHFO8BXvbZjH7gwdFBIoo__XkN2TI-yf1QIG5WuXLFtpgLZNL6tXOsQ_xyJVVJt4LoebIz7b-v2TsWxUH9B1fGvdCGysEPpfmPvpMeo8AiXPqY9RIx1NpYGgjVAcZ7folpPX-svic/s1600/woolsweaterwash.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiARuIHFO8BXvbZjH7gwdFBIoo__XkN2TI-yf1QIG5WuXLFtpgLZNL6tXOsQ_xyJVVJt4LoebIz7b-v2TsWxUH9B1fGvdCGysEPpfmPvpMeo8AiXPqY9RIx1NpYGgjVAcZ7folpPX-svic/s320/woolsweaterwash.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649398006636151506" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1:</span><br />Fill a basin or sink with cool water and add 1 Tbsp of a mild detergent that’s free of bleach, such as Woolite Extra Delicates Care; swish the water to create suds. Place the sweater into the water and swirl it around until it’s completely wet. Don’t scrub or stretch the sweater, which can damage the shape and fibers. Let sit for 10 minutes while the detergent breaks down soil.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvuf5p8N6-XFa_lJVAvAb19xsudmcn84VZAjBBQAGY14n33hHSvTuXhpB9rd1s05S0Z2Y55L7JYObzx0akukBwf19C4wPlKRsSm_BRr3-Bi1TV-jmlOTyHHnzM-7JYmHS829CbegL9wkg/s1600/woolsweaterwash2.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvuf5p8N6-XFa_lJVAvAb19xsudmcn84VZAjBBQAGY14n33hHSvTuXhpB9rd1s05S0Z2Y55L7JYObzx0akukBwf19C4wPlKRsSm_BRr3-Bi1TV-jmlOTyHHnzM-7JYmHS829CbegL9wkg/s320/woolsweaterwash2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649398012238441586" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 2:</span><br />Gather the sweater in your hands, lift it out of the water and gently press a few times (don’t wring) to remove excess water. Empty the soapy water and refill the basin or sink with cool water. Submerge the sweater and swirl around to rinse. Empty and refill the basin again with fresh water, repeating the swirling process until no detergent remains in the water.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirLIR9EP4_x29IR471c1M9o4f58iyYjPY4g19xTWfjHnl8yjZXRkM-Bygs7vut80i6pL_m7heo49tpvzyy1zkCpdtNsaHdyVqNhonNOS00UCvVZCqnOAGIJnTtCKoPjlYIViW_E3o6DDo/s1600/woolsweaterwash3.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirLIR9EP4_x29IR471c1M9o4f58iyYjPY4g19xTWfjHnl8yjZXRkM-Bygs7vut80i6pL_m7heo49tpvzyy1zkCpdtNsaHdyVqNhonNOS00UCvVZCqnOAGIJnTtCKoPjlYIViW_E3o6DDo/s320/woolsweaterwash3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649398013635827506" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 3:</span><br />Gather the sweater, gently press to remove water and lay it on a white or colorfast towel that has been spread on a flat waterproof surface. Spread another white or colorfast towel on top so that the sweater is sandwiched between the towels. Starting from the top, tightly roll the towels downward together— they’ll absorb most of the moisture in the sweater.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGltlDrcBcoRu6AdbXIgd7IAnHQNafwnHDSupNy6A2SJnb7xvCJhQwxirPWH2ZuT9jK0yuRDnMnnqoukdg8MOrPmVg4wbYPTt1GygnSv0tEP2B5Xqf3-UTKUKAk0HDaGNUtLSMYMyfX0E/s1600/woolsweaterwash4.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGltlDrcBcoRu6AdbXIgd7IAnHQNafwnHDSupNy6A2SJnb7xvCJhQwxirPWH2ZuT9jK0yuRDnMnnqoukdg8MOrPmVg4wbYPTt1GygnSv0tEP2B5Xqf3-UTKUKAk0HDaGNUtLSMYMyfX0E/s320/woolsweaterwash4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649398016659159954" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 4:</span><br />Unroll and pick up the sweater; lay it on a third white or colorfast towel that has been spread on a flat waterproof surface away from sunlight and heat (to keep the wool from becoming brittle). Gently reshape the sweater, extending the arms and buttoning, if necessary. Let dry. To touch up wrinkles, turn it inside out and iron on low heat with steam (but first, test on a small area).<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />By the way, looking for some great sweaters? Check out <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.landsend.com">Lands End</a>. They have great sweaters for reasonable prices that always last me at least 3 seasons.<br /><br />Enjoy!Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-66345753548115315192011-08-30T09:00:00.000-07:002011-08-30T09:00:01.491-07:00Gift in a Jar<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjys3GjYjRzOpAG7sTWluoyK4xgQShtBO1gUES_OdVbv-PwINNVEZtFtFFRNv9tc02lOmET_KJoJQzu-jXZqBHg7wd_CP2tWfVbmAeSvCwq0XIFKoEpKjbq4wNZnGan4veCkd5t5NOmQoQ/s1600/giftinajar.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 203px; height: 252px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjys3GjYjRzOpAG7sTWluoyK4xgQShtBO1gUES_OdVbv-PwINNVEZtFtFFRNv9tc02lOmET_KJoJQzu-jXZqBHg7wd_CP2tWfVbmAeSvCwq0XIFKoEpKjbq4wNZnGan4veCkd5t5NOmQoQ/s320/giftinajar.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645650200988729586" border="0" /></a>Yes, Christmas is less than four months away. Since I'm already building my list and my budget, I'm compiling my go-to recipes for homemade gifts.
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<br />Oatmeal :
<br />The layers in the jar give a pretty "sand art" appearance that makes the jar pretty enough to give as a gift along with the instructions for making the recipe.
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<br />You'll need:
<br />Makes about 36
<br />5/8 cup all-purpose flour
<br />1/2 cup rolled oats
<br />1/2 cup all-purpose flour (note: flour is divided to make separate layers in the jar. If you are not making a Gift-in-a-jar, just combine the two flour measurements)
<br />1/2 teaspoon baking soda
<br />1/2 teaspoon salt
<br />1/3 cup brown sugar
<br />1/3 cup white sugar
<br />1/2 cup dried cranberries
<br />1/2 cup white chocolate chips
<br />1/2 cup chopped pecans
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<br />Let's start:
<br />Layer the ingredients in a 1 quart or 1 liter jar, in the order listed. Attach a tag with the following instructions:
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<br />Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease a cookie sheet or line it with parchment paper. In a medium mixing bowl, beat together 1/2 cup softened butter, 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla until fluffy. Add the entire jar of ingredients, and mix together by hand until well blended. Drop by heaping spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until edges are lightly browned.
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<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-23181386964657336032011-08-29T09:00:00.000-07:002011-08-29T09:00:00.092-07:00Food Day Cookies<style type="text/css">p { margin-bottom: 0.08in; }</style> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;" align="LEFT">We had food day at work on Friday and I made these. I tend to make baked goods that don't call for softened butter. That's just too much preparation for me. </p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;" align="LEFT">I would post pictures, but they went too fast. That's a good sign.
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;" align="LEFT"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies</span>
<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;" align="LEFT">You'll need:</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">* 2 cups all-purpose flour
<br />* ½ teaspoon baking soda
<br />* ½ teaspoon salt
<br />* ¾ cup butter, melted (1½ sticks)
<br />* 1 cup packed brown sugar
<br />* ½ cup white sugar
<br />* 1 teaspoon cinnamon
<br />* 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
<br />* 1 egg
<br />* 1 egg yolk
<br />* 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats
<br />* 1 heaping cup raisins</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Let's start:
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<br />1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.
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<br />2. Melt butter.
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<br />3. Mix flour, baking soda and salt; set aside.
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<br />4. In a medium bowl, cream together the melted butter, brown sugar and white sugar until well blended. Beat in the cinnamon, vanilla, egg, and egg yolk for 2-3 minutes until light and creamy. Mix in the flour mixture until just blended. Add the oats and raisins. Mix until just blended.
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<br />5. Place 1/4 cup balls of dough onto parchment lined cookie sheet and bake for 14-16 minutes.
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Pour big glass of milk and enjoy the raisin goodness.
<br /></p> Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-8871096548568833432011-08-28T08:56:00.000-07:002011-08-28T14:56:37.130-07:00Cream Cheese and Raisin Sunday<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0ANab1pKC84Mtd7tgisGluwwBf5NcAT0BIKlFzZxukh9bkdAX7aVpKJNhrKvDrgBcgGVGect30P9qQ8fi7311DcIY87aGFqOMyGQWQtVs5MFPkIK1OJ4ZR8uSsy_i5uGglEuz32ekO4/s1600/IMG_0406.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 204px; height: 151px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0ANab1pKC84Mtd7tgisGluwwBf5NcAT0BIKlFzZxukh9bkdAX7aVpKJNhrKvDrgBcgGVGect30P9qQ8fi7311DcIY87aGFqOMyGQWQtVs5MFPkIK1OJ4ZR8uSsy_i5uGglEuz32ekO4/s320/IMG_0406.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646028046262553346" border="0" /></a>
<br />I made this for breakfast! It was raisin and cream cheese goodness. I added butter on top of mine with some iced coffee. Since Mr. Wonderful is more of a plain eater, he left off the butter and opted for juice.
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<br />Yes, I made enough for an army, but I'll eat some tomorrow for breakfast also.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stuffed French Toast with Raisins</span>
<br />
<br />You'll need:<div class="ingredients" style="margin-top: 10px;"><ul><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 4 ounces cream cheese, softened</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1 tbsp white sugar</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1.5 oz raisins
<br /></li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1/4 tsp pumpkin spice
<br /></li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 8 slices whole wheat bread</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 3 eggs</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 3 tbsp milk</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon</li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1/4 tsp pumpkin spice
<br /></li><li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 1 tsp butter for the pan if needed</li></ul>Let's start: </div> <div style="border-top: 1px dotted rgb(204, 204, 204); width: 300px; margin-top: 20px;"> </div> <div class="directions" style="margin-top: 10px;"> <ol><li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, raisins, sugar, 1/4 tsp of pumpkin spice, and 1/4 tsp cinnamon until thoroughly combined. Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly onto 4 slices of bread. Top each spread slice with another slice of bread to make 4 sandwiches. </span></li><li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs, 1/4 tsp pumpkin spice, milk and 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon. Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture on both sides. </span></li><li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> Grease a skillet with butter, and place over medium heat. Brown the sandwiches in the skillet for about 2 minutes per side. </span></li></ol> </div>
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiebbvVqxtXhTA7CBuDTf3BX8smYTwPTriCohbmdewY473DulJW4rzv5Ei9Vj2GbF8ogx7Fr58bdxbsXvkeXx6odv9mZjs03f2Kldq6I9m4NNTtArKTj1Wx5Z92GWrcemnghJmQQawleCg/s1600/IMG_0408.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 159px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiebbvVqxtXhTA7CBuDTf3BX8smYTwPTriCohbmdewY473DulJW4rzv5Ei9Vj2GbF8ogx7Fr58bdxbsXvkeXx6odv9mZjs03f2Kldq6I9m4NNTtArKTj1Wx5Z92GWrcemnghJmQQawleCg/s320/IMG_0408.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646028053618552050" border="0" /></a>
<br />
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></span>Although I didn't have any apples, they would be a great side item.
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<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-49620793584981596922011-08-25T09:00:00.000-07:002011-08-25T09:00:01.285-07:00Max the Space<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKOVht5OYFeFEMpujZQBEWYUVZCdiQseQ0zz1XZc5Fz2tNPjPz1YasVO-uT6drjA3VDeoZ7jdmZPQ01Ez08_Vz7xbdwmDSVNrIXljIHGx4D2gAJfN5VDXy6fIXSWKkOPhjhNxnTlG8tDo/s1600/oil+drip+pan.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 132px; height: 186px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKOVht5OYFeFEMpujZQBEWYUVZCdiQseQ0zz1XZc5Fz2tNPjPz1YasVO-uT6drjA3VDeoZ7jdmZPQ01Ez08_Vz7xbdwmDSVNrIXljIHGx4D2gAJfN5VDXy6fIXSWKkOPhjhNxnTlG8tDo/s320/oil+drip+pan.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644478548718870338" border="0" /></a>Soon, I'll be moving from a one bedroom apartment into a two bedroom. As an individual who moved from a home into an apartment, it's a pretty big deal!
<br />
<br />As you can imagine, I have <span style="font-style: italic;">quite a bit of furniture</span> without the space so sometimes creativity plays a huge role.
<br />
<br />This image (thanks <a href="http://www.pinterest.com">pinterest</a>!) provides a perfect example of how to use an <span style="font-weight: bold;">oil pan</span> in a small space. So, I've been thinking about getting one for the small wall in my galley kitchen. I would attach it to the wall a little higher than usual so as to utilize all of the wall space in my small kitchen.
<br />
<br />Below it, would be some shelves for baskets to keep everything from silverware to hand towels.
<br />
<br />Do <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">you</span> use out of the ordinary items to maximize your space?
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<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-6426540756518050732011-08-24T09:00:00.000-07:002011-08-24T10:35:33.982-07:00Weeknight Cooking Made Easy<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgArxjrFhZHThToYHD_l-x5f4r-dw6gDVoB3f3KDYP3mHZWDCEVVCyjfeljjtTzOe7IR7fzNvtrWpjv0PUxXGnaYMCyf5DXl9PWWmvcQ30K9iO5aX5rBX8UDOHxPNeBVpoqVvpGBcpzSNc/s1600/burger.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 121px; height: 138px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgArxjrFhZHThToYHD_l-x5f4r-dw6gDVoB3f3KDYP3mHZWDCEVVCyjfeljjtTzOe7IR7fzNvtrWpjv0PUxXGnaYMCyf5DXl9PWWmvcQ30K9iO5aX5rBX8UDOHxPNeBVpoqVvpGBcpzSNc/s320/burger.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644475390358159874" border="0" /></a>Since I'm on cooking duty during the week (lovey has the weekend) I aim for yummy, quick, and somewhat healthy. I've got yummy and "somewhat" healthy down, but still working on the <span style="font-weight: bold;">quick</span>. Sometimes I just want to forget about it and go out. *Sigh.*
<br />
<br />Well, we all know THAT can't happen considering it isn't budget friendly, and I haven't won the lottery.
<br />
<br />Luckily, all of my recipe stalking, I mean <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">surfing</span>, has paid off.
<br />
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Easy Stove Top Turkey Burgers</span>
<br />
<br />You'll need:
<br />* 1 packet dried onion soup packet
<br />* 1 cup cheddar cheese
<br />* 1 egg
<br />* 1 package thawed ground turkey
<br />
<br />Let's start:
<br />1. Shape burgers into 3 inch patties.
<br />2. Coat large pan with thin layer of olive oil and place over medium high heat.
<br />3. Once oil heats, place patties into pan.
<br />4. Cook until brown, turning every 5-7 minutes.
<br />5. Add cheese (optional)
<br />
<br />I served these on whole wheat buns with ketchup, mustard, and dill pickle relish. Our sides were waffle fries and baked beans.
<br />
<br />Enjoy! :)
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<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-36519349276036480832011-08-23T09:00:00.000-07:002011-08-23T09:00:08.620-07:00New Take on an Old Classic- LasagnaI love anything pasta, but sometimes the usual lasagna can be boring. While browsing my Martha Stewart Living magazine I found this new take on an old classic. It's pretty simple using no-boil noodles and some wonderful lemon.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sausage, Chard, & Lemon Lasagna</span>
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL5Y4BIE7gl0WVBonY9A_u5uW0-zVoC9aRG1hyphenhyphenylC6kMGpgeMLR3xmNjAWo3F0L2X1fgJWXvNT31eR0QBlTULJcvDfc4GEarG9pM6RCkrw-EoRGigoz0jdgSzo7_p6bSwiSsQy2jIHIDU/s1600/sausage+casserole1_l.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 144px; height: 158px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL5Y4BIE7gl0WVBonY9A_u5uW0-zVoC9aRG1hyphenhyphenylC6kMGpgeMLR3xmNjAWo3F0L2X1fgJWXvNT31eR0QBlTULJcvDfc4GEarG9pM6RCkrw-EoRGigoz0jdgSzo7_p6bSwiSsQy2jIHIDU/s320/sausage+casserole1_l.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641977766357892818" border="0" /></a>
<br /><h2>
<br /></h2><h2>
<br /></h2><h2>
<br /></h2><h2><span style="font-size:100%;">You'll need:
<br /></span></h2> <div class="item-list"><ul class="content-multigroup-group-ingredient"><li class="ingredient first"> 3 tablespoons unsalted butter</li><li class="ingredient"> 1/4 cup all-purpose flour</li><li class="ingredient"> 3 cups whole milk</li><li class="ingredient"> 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (about 4 ounces)</li><li class="ingredient"> Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper</li><li class="ingredient"> 5 cups coarsely chopped Swiss chard (about 1 bunch)</li><li class="ingredient"> 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed</li><li class="ingredient"> 1 lemon, very thinly sliced</li><li class="ingredient last"> 6 no-boil lasagna noodles, preferably Barilla</li></ul></div> <div class="recipe-section instructions"> <h2><span style="font-size:100%;">Let's start:</span>
<br /></h2> <div class="item-list"><ol class="content-multigroup-group-steps"><li class="step first"> <p>Melt butter in a saucepan over high heat. Stir in flour; cook for 2 minutes. Whisk in milk. Bring to a boil, stirring. Reduce heat. Simmer for 1 minute. Remove from heat. Whisk in 3/4 cup cheese, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Stir in chard.</p> </li><li class="step"> <p>Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cook sausage in a skillet over high heat, breaking up pieces, until no longer pink, about 4 minutes.</p> </li><li class="step"> <p>Cover lemon slices with cold water by 3 inches in a saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer for 7 minutes. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate using a slotted spoon.</p> </li><li class="step"> <p>Spread 1/4 cup sauce in an 8-inch square nonreactive baking dish. Top with 2 noodles, half the sausage, and 1 cup sauce. Repeat. Top with a layer of lemons, 2 noodles, then remaining sauce and lemons. Bake, covered with parchment-lined foil, for 27 minutes.</p> </li><li class="step last"> <p>Remove from oven. Heat broiler. Uncover lasagna; top with remaining 1/4 cup cheese. Broil until bubbling, 2 to 3 minutes.</p> </li></ol></div> </div>
<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-5236262782462365592011-08-22T09:00:00.000-07:002011-08-22T09:00:08.155-07:00Not Your Usual Spaghetti<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7CWsZncD8Lrq-IBhZzuyIk9BPf7WHiZA5RA5BgwGyaxWxPpiuhjC8W2Mhogy_UtNMDcr5lFDShYlyWZt2segGK4Gcv6J3GN3UhULiG1nHxvmYZWlXxKYz7-tDrNZ7yfFOLgk_t1sUqgc/s1600/spaghetti.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 137px; height: 163px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7CWsZncD8Lrq-IBhZzuyIk9BPf7WHiZA5RA5BgwGyaxWxPpiuhjC8W2Mhogy_UtNMDcr5lFDShYlyWZt2segGK4Gcv6J3GN3UhULiG1nHxvmYZWlXxKYz7-tDrNZ7yfFOLgk_t1sUqgc/s320/spaghetti.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641972637286228402" border="0" /></a>If you haven't seen <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/">Real Simple</a> magazine, get thee to a store! It has great recipes that are very *simple* to make and very yummy! Also, they have a section where the discuss new uses for old things.
<br />
<br />Right now you can get a subscription from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00005R8BR/ref=mag_var_36599999_365?ie=UTF8&s=magazines">Amazon</a> for about $23.88.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Basil Spaghetti with Cheesy Broiled Tomatoes</span>
<br /><div class="recipeIngred"> <h3><span style="font-size:100%;">You'll need:</span></h3> <ul><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">12 ounces </span>spaghetti</span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">3 large tomatoes (about 1.5 pounds) cut into 4 thick slices</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for the baking sheet</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount"></span><span itemprop="name">kosher salt and black pepper</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">8 ounces </span><span itemprop="name">fresh mozzarella, grated</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/4 cup </span><span itemprop="name">grated Parmesan (1 ounce), plus more, shaved, for serving</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 </span><span itemprop="name">cloves garlic, chopped</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon </span><span itemprop="name">crushed red pepper</span></span></li><li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">3/4 cup </span><span itemprop="name">torn fresh basil leaves, plus more for serving</span></span></li></ul> </div> <div class="recipeDirections"> <h3><span style="font-size:100%;">Let's start:</span>
<br /></h3> <ol><li>Heat broiler. Cook the pasta according to the package directions; drain and return it to the pot.</li><li>Meanwhile, arrange the tomato slices in a single layer on a lightly oiled rimmed baking sheet. Season with ¼ teaspoon each salt and black pepper. Dividing evenly, sprinkle the slices with the mozzarella and Parmesan. Broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden, 3 to 5 minutes. </li><li>In a small saucepan, warm the oil with the garlic and red pepper over medium heat until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes.</li><li>Add the garlic oil, basil, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper to the pasta and toss to combine. Serve topped with the tomatoes, additional basil, and shaved Parmesan. </li></ol> </div>
<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-57807696732654984232011-08-19T09:00:00.000-07:002011-08-19T09:00:04.134-07:00Carolina Barbeque BurgersSince I love anything with BBQ in the title, I just had to share this wonderful Weight Watchers recipe.
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<br />Grab an ice cold beer and get cooking! Try serving this with the <a href="http://alabamanest.blogspot.com/2011/08/spicy-baked-sweet-potato-fries.html">Spicy Baked Sweet Potato Fries</a>.
<br />
<br />You'll need:
<br /><ul id="internal-source-marker_0.9132799778374644"><li>3 TBS Ketchup</li><li>1 TBS Packed Brown Sugar</li><li>1 TBS Mustard</li><li>1 TBS Apple Cider Vinegar</li><li>¾ TSP Worcestershire Sauce</li><li>⅓ TSP Cajun Seasoning</li><li>1 LB Ground Turkey</li><li>1 Red Onion</li><li>5 Whole Wheat Thin Buns</li><li>Salt and Pepper, to taste</li><li>Lettuce Leaves, torn</li><li>Tomato slices</li></ul> <p>Let's start:</p><p>1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
<br /></p><p>2. For sauce, mix ketchup through cajun seasoning. Season ground turkey with salt and pepper and form into patties.
<br /></p><p>3. Place patties on heated grill. Brush the tops generously with BBQ sauce.
<br /></p><p>4. Flip burgers after about 4 minutes and brush burgers with remaining sauce. Meanwhile, slice red onion, brush with olive oil and toss on grill.
<br /></p><p>5. Once burgers are done (after about another 4 min.) place on whole wheat buns and top with grilled onions, lettuce and tomato.</p>
<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-72851052619822615082011-08-18T09:30:00.000-07:002011-08-18T09:30:03.505-07:00Whole Wheat and Chocolate? Yes please.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3vqSaV1fK_wfryGd_vpIqVwZLog5WQ-Nx1amV1eGkWQLJYqasRI0lsDMB7xxWM_DTE0sMCQs99xGyRuyg0KR6lNzpLadKU8_gJchNV9CYXzLeHti45syVp5E-3QE6Ua4TlUGPAJob0J4/s1600/ChocBlackBerry.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3vqSaV1fK_wfryGd_vpIqVwZLog5WQ-Nx1amV1eGkWQLJYqasRI0lsDMB7xxWM_DTE0sMCQs99xGyRuyg0KR6lNzpLadKU8_gJchNV9CYXzLeHti45syVp5E-3QE6Ua4TlUGPAJob0J4/s320/ChocBlackBerry.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641968848006809586" border="0" /></a>Another winner from the Publix magazine. If you haven't ever visited a Publix.
<br />
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Whole Wheat Dark Chocolate Cake with Blackberry Sauce</span>
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<br />You'll need:
<br />4 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
<br />6 tablespoons Publix GreenWise Market Organic Unsalted Butter,* cut up
<br />3/4 cup strong brewed coffee
<br />2 tablespoons bourbon (optional)
<br />1 Publix GreenWise Market Organic Egg,* lightly beaten
<br />1/2 teaspoon vanilla*
<br />1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
<br />1 cup sugar*
<br />1/2 teaspoon baking soda
<br />1/8 teaspoon salt
<br />1 recipe Chocolate Glaze, below
<br />Publix Premium Vanilla Frozen Yogurt
<br />1 recipe Blackberry Sauce, below
<br />Fresh blackberries
<br />Dark chocolate shavings
<br />
<br />*available organic
<br />
<br />Let's start:
<br />
<br />1. <strong></strong>Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Grease the bottom of a 9x5x3-inch loaf pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper. Grease and flour parchment paper; set aside.
<br />
<br />2. <strong></strong>In a medium saucepan heat chocolate with the butter and coffee over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until chocolate is melted. Remove from heat and cool for 10 minutes. Using a wooden spoon, beat in the bourbon, if using, egg and vanilla. Add the flour, sugar, soda and salt; mix well. Pour batter into the prepared pan.
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<br />3. <strong></strong>Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool cake in pan on wire rack for 10 minutes. Remove from pan. Remove parchment paper. Cool thoroughly on wire rack.
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<br />4. <strong></strong>Cut loaf into 8 slices. Drizzle slices with Chocolate Glaze. Top with a scoop of frozen yogurt and some of the Blackberry Sauce. Garnish with blackberries and chocolate shavings. <em>Makes 8 servings</em>
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<br />Nutrition: <strong></strong>441 cal., 22 g total fat (13 g sat. fat), 52 mg chol.,193 mg sodium, 56 g carb., 5 g dietary fiber, 5 g protein. Exchanges: 2 starch, 3 other carbohydrates, 4.5 fat.
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<br />Chocolate Glaze: <strong></strong>In a microwave-safe bowl combine 1 cup frozen light whipped dessert topping, thawed, and 1/2 cup dark chocolate pieces or finely chopped dark chocolate. Micro-cook on 50 percent power (medium) for 1 minute. Stir until smooth. Let stand 5 minutes. Drizzle over cooled cake.
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<br />Blackberry Sauce: <strong></strong>In a blender or food processor combine 1/2 cup Publix Premium Vanilla Frozen Yogurt and 1-2/3 cups (9 ounces) fresh blackberries. Cover and blend or process until smooth.Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-83153647463105189512011-08-17T16:15:00.001-07:002011-08-17T16:18:53.700-07:00Spicy Baked Sweet Potato Fries<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCDCvSJsoGUq0CF7vYO1N7kuKrJPnGENjCNmGWj96TxmxsfTyGTpOpTrmfM-IfNKlzgEFJoeOPZenxkxakZ0wb2GwsRpAQ2VL5VdxG0q3CYp6bPqZY9HlNwHfy1vknfd0h2U1UBNCCffU/s1600/Fries.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCDCvSJsoGUq0CF7vYO1N7kuKrJPnGENjCNmGWj96TxmxsfTyGTpOpTrmfM-IfNKlzgEFJoeOPZenxkxakZ0wb2GwsRpAQ2VL5VdxG0q3CYp6bPqZY9HlNwHfy1vknfd0h2U1UBNCCffU/s320/Fries.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641967815107728738" border="0" /></a>I found this in the Publix magazine and thought they looked scrumptious!
<br />
<br />You'll need:
<br />2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 pound total)
<br />1/2 teaspoon salt
<br />1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
<br />1/2 teaspoon chili powder
<br />1/2 teaspoon paprika
<br />1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
<br />Coarse sea salt or kosher salt (optional)
<br />Ketchup (optional)
<br />
<br />Let's start:
<br />1. <strong></strong>Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Lightly coat a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside. Scrub potatoes and cut lengthwise into quarters. Cut each quarter lengthwise into four wedges. Arrange potatoes in a single layer in prepared pan. Coat lightly with cooking spray.
<br />
<br />2. <strong></strong>Combine salt, cumin, chili powder, paprika and pepper in a small bowl; sprinkle over potatoes.
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<br />3. <strong></strong>Bake for 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender, turning once. If desired, sprinkle with sea salt and serve with ketchup. <em>Makes 4 servings
<br /></em>
<br />Nutrition: <strong></strong>59 cal., 0 g total fat (0 g sat. fat), 0 mg chol., 330 mg sodium, 14 g carb., 2 g dietary fiber, 1 g protein. Exchanges: 1 starch.
<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-13649557009531035022011-08-16T09:00:00.000-07:002011-08-16T09:00:13.241-07:00Spicy Vinegar<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWth6wEhYRNgG1-U38l3b0DfwXhwCVX8jKEBGQVEUm-FgnVLF9joZCs_v4nYkTdB-cJ6kywcycbTKt_FK9qgY_6qlAOAL4quC-U9LPXXQINUkoOLO75YsycvpKVJ8OyAkLgcuIOX7LyPM/s1600/vinegar.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 123px; height: 159px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWth6wEhYRNgG1-U38l3b0DfwXhwCVX8jKEBGQVEUm-FgnVLF9joZCs_v4nYkTdB-cJ6kywcycbTKt_FK9qgY_6qlAOAL4quC-U9LPXXQINUkoOLO75YsycvpKVJ8OyAkLgcuIOX7LyPM/s320/vinegar.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641233488985671346" border="0" /></a>
<br />Again, from my Martha Stewart magazine. It has such good ideas! I found this recipe to make infuse vinegar with peppers. Yum!
<br />
<br />You'll need:
<br />* 20 peppers per half-liter bottle
<br />* half-litter bottle
<br />* white vinegar (or rice vinegar for Thai version)
<br />
<br />Let's start:
<br />1. Sterilize half or three quarter liter glass bottles by using the sterilize button on the dishwasher or boiling them for 10 minutes.
<br />2. Wash peppers, cut a slit in each and insert into bottles. You'll need 20 per half-liter bottle.
<br />3. Meanwhile heat 2-3 cups white vinegar, or rice vinegar, to just boiling.
<br />4. Funnel into bottles to fill, let cool and cork.
<br />5. Refridgerate after corking.
<br />
<br />This is another great gift- just create tags, print, and attach with twine.
<br />
<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-10815968335524523752011-08-15T16:35:00.000-07:002011-08-15T16:41:13.287-07:00Dried Tomato Goodness<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjIT2ZslalsV1xTg28n5Wdij3BJ9q8tPeklCHFBMptzVRTdJiWcxDVdDXd_Vl8pYNt7yzKKGlyY5JwDRjeXYTKBjrRPrKpZ33_Z4w4ZEj26Je6q2nNnWwNaUam5Og5PBBQR27u54qmvE/s1600/tomato.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 154px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjIT2ZslalsV1xTg28n5Wdij3BJ9q8tPeklCHFBMptzVRTdJiWcxDVdDXd_Vl8pYNt7yzKKGlyY5JwDRjeXYTKBjrRPrKpZ33_Z4w4ZEj26Je6q2nNnWwNaUam5Og5PBBQR27u54qmvE/s320/tomato.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641231434749325618" border="0" /></a>I found this on Martha Stewart and had to share. If you're like me, in love with tomatoes, you'll want to save this. :)
<br />
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Oven Dried Tomato Recipe</span>
<br />
<br />You'll need:
<br /> <div class="item-list">* 24 cherry tomatoes
<br /> * 8 to 10 plum tomatoes, cut in half
<br /> * 8 to 10 yellow, orange, red, or green tomatoes, cut into 1/4-inch-thick or thicker slices
<br /> * 1 tablespoon sugar
<br /> * Herbs, such as basil, oregano, or rosemary, to taste
<br /> * Salt and freshly ground black pepper</div> <div class="recipe-section instructions"> <div class="item-list">
<br />Let's start:
<br /><ol class="content-multigroup-group-steps"><li class="step first"><p>Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Line a pan with parchment; for thinnest chips, use a Silpat baking mat. Arrange tomatoes, cut sides up, on pan, spaced 1/2 to 1 inch apart. Sprinkle with sugar and herbs; season with salt and pepper.</p> </li><li class="step last"> <p>Transfer pan to oven; dry until juices have stopped running, edges are shriveled, and pieces have shrunken slightly; timing will vary depending on the variety, ripeness, and desired degree of dryness, 1 1/2 to 6 hours. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.</p> </li></ol></div> </div>This also makes for a great gift!
<br />Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-12532510879918325832011-08-13T09:00:00.000-07:002011-08-13T09:00:05.007-07:00Hair AffairIsn't this gorgeous! It looks so simple that maybe even I can do it. See it in it's clear glory <a href="http://thebeautydepartment.com/2011/05/the-modern-bride/">here</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://thebeautydepartment.com/2011/05/the-modern-bride/"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 203px; height: 618px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHuKgpAi-gT-tHgFTMqI1DB-9bALx1TVWI1eVrcYCtgAJHXwdNwzPsrDcLTKlR6LfbWaycy-TFiwW3fVNQ24Qf_WjeoyfAkv-RqKFKg5LLuZZ1St0lwic5MaDkuwtkLj6xO6rdiya1nZ4/s320/primandproper.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638289440340375138" border="0" /></a>Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8618545633231796533.post-35631330984971626352011-08-12T08:30:00.000-07:002011-08-12T08:30:01.881-07:00Food Friday- Peach TartsI made these last week, and had every intention of taking a picture, but they were snapped up very quickly.<br /><br />These were super easy to make, and quite the crowd pleaser!<br /><br />Peach Tarts<br /><br />You'll need:<br />* 4 peaches peeled and diced<br />* 3/4 cup sour cream<br />* 1 tbsp vanilla extract<br />* 3/4 cup sugar<br />* 3 egg yolks<br />* 1/4 cup all purpose flour<br />* 8 individual tart cups (found <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Dutch-Ann-Frozen-Tart-Shells-10-oz/10813455">these</a> at Walmart)<br /><br />Preparation:<br />1. Preheat oven to 400F.<br />2. Peel and dice peaches. Set aside.<br />3. Combine sour cream, vanilla, sugar, egg yolks, and flour in bowl.<br />4. Set tart cups on baking pan.<br />5. Fill each tart cup with about a tablespoon full of peaches. You want the cup to be about 3/4 full.<br />6. Pour the sour cream mixture over top until it is nicely rounded. The mixture will reduce when cooled.<br /><br />I added a side of ice cream when I served these. Yum!Ashleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11918148391167510365noreply@blogger.com0