Dinner Tonight

What's for dinner tonight?? Below holds some answers.....

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Dinner Aug 30 - Spicey Grilled Chicken

Hello everyone!!!  I hope your week is going well!  We are still trying to squeeze some summer fun into every thing; our outdoor time, pool time and of course--meal time!!!  Today's dinner just screams summer!!!  This recipe came from www.bettycrocker.com  Grilling section--love it!!!  I hope you enjoy as you sip some wine (or beer) at your grill :)

2 T chili powder
Salt & Pepper
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 T Oil
1 can black beans
1 can Green Giant Mexicorn
1/3 c Salsa
2 cups hot cooked rice

In small bowl, mix chili powder, salt & pepper.  Coat chicken in oil and sprinkle over chicken breasts.  Heat grill to med-high heat.  Cook chicken 5-6min per side, until no longer pink.

Stir beans, corn and salsa in pan and heat on low.  Serve chicken over rice and top w/ bean/corn mix.  Yummy!!!

Dinner Aug 26, 2001 - Taco Pizza

For everyone who's ever ordered a taco pizza at a restaurant, this one's for you!!!  I've never made this before and was thrilled at how well it turned out!  It was easy and yummy and pretty....a perfect dinner :)

Taco Pizza

1 pre-made pizza crust (like Boboli's)
1 c salsa (I mixed med and hot)
1/2 lb ground turkey
1 pkt taco seasoning
1/4 c water
1 can blk olives
1/2 c shredded cheese
lettuce, tomato, sour cream

Heat oven to 425.  In skillet, brown meat over med-high heat and drain, if there's any fat.  Mix water and taco seasoning.  Pour over meat in pan and simmer for a few minutes, coating the meat in the seasoning.  Place crust on pizza pan and cover w/ salsa, meat, olives and cheese.  Bake for about 10 min.  Top w/ remaining lettuce and tomato, and use sour cream for dipping.  I didn't do this, but you can also top w/ crushed chips :)  Enjoy your dinner!!!

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Dinner Aug 22, 2011 - Marsala Pork Tenderloin

Hello everyone!  We had a wonderful weekend filled w/ some pool time, laziness and leftovers :)  I hope you enjoyed yours as well!  Monday brings us back to craziness and rushed dinners!  I recently got a cookbook from Pampered Chef: 29 Minutes to Dinner.  I LOVE it!!  It's got some amazing recipes that are yummy, easy and QUICK!!!  Most pork tenderloins take quite a while in the oven, but I was very pleased w/ this one.  As you may know, I'm not a big fan of pork anyway, but I was sooooo happy w/ dinner last night!  And now, may I bring you....


Marsala Pork Tenderloin

1 pork tenderloin, about 1lb
2 T oil
Salt & Pepper
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 small onion, cut into slices
1 can mushrooms, pieces & stems, chopped finely
2 T garlic, chopped
1 c chicken broth
1/2 c Marsala wine
3 T cornstarch
2 T butter
Instant Mashed Potatoes

Heat skillet on med-high and add oil.  Cut tenderloin into medallions, about 1/2" thick.  Salt and pepper both sides.  Cook in oil about 5-6min per side.  Remove from pan and cover to keep warm.  Add a little more oil to skillet and add asparagus, onions, mushrooms and garlic.  Cook 4-5min.  Whisk together broth, wine, cornstarch, salt & pepper in small bowl and add to veggies.  Bring to a boil and cook on med for 2-3min, or until thick.  Add pork and butter to pan and let simmer for a few minutes.  Serve w/ mashed potatoes and it's a meal!! 

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Dinner Aug 16 - Steak Fajitas

This dinner was AMAZING!!!  I'm not a fan of fajitas in restaurants, b/c the meat is always tough and it's soaked in a sauce that, albeit delicious, it can't be good for you!  These fajitas put all other fajitas to shame!  I originally got the recipe from www.kraftfoods.com, but I adapted it a bit, of course :)  I  have to give some credit to my hubs, who is the World's Best Meat Griller ;)  I hope you guys enjoy this as much as we did!!

1 Skirt Steak or Flank Steak
All purpose seasoning
2 red or green peppers, sliced
1/2 onion, sliced
3 banana peppers, sliced
1 cayenne pepper, sliced (for heat)
1 c corn
2 tomatoes, chopped
2 gr onions, chopped
handful of Cilantro, chopped
juice of 1 lime
Salt
flour tortillas

Heat grill to med-high.  Season steak on both sides, being very generous w/ seasoning.  As my husband would say - if you think you've over-seasoned it, it's perfect!  The the peppers and onion and toss in the seasoning as well.  Grill veggies in grill pan for about 8-10 min and grill steak for about 8min per side, for rare steak. 
Mix remaining ingredients in separate bowl.  To assemble, layer steak, peppers and corn salsa inside tortilla.  I used a little sour cream also :)  It was soooooo good!!!!  Happy dinner!!

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Dinner Aug 15, 2011 - Shrimp Grill-Fry

Hello everyone!!  We are back to having some yummy grilled shrimp for dinner tonight!!  We love to have shrimp, but I get kind of tired of fixing it sometimes :)  I got this recipe from www.kraftfoods.com again and I'm excited to give it a try!!!  I adjusted it a bit and it was delish!!  Enjoy!

1/2 chopped peppers
1/2 cup sliced red onions
1 chopped banana pepper
1 lb sugar snap peas
1 chopped cayenne pepper/crushed red peppers (for heat)
1 lb raw, peeled, deveined shrimp
1/2 c Tamari sauce (found in the health food section, or just use soy sauce)
1 t ground ginger
2 cups hot, cooked rice

Heat grill and grill pan to med-high heat.  Combine veggies and 1/4 c Tamari sauce and 1/2 t ginger.  Grill about 5-7min, or until crisp-tender.  Place shrimp in bowl and add remaining Tamari sauce and ginger.  Add to veggies and 'stir-fry' another 8-10min, or until shrimp is done.  Serve this over the rice and it's an instant summer stir-fry!!!

Monday, August 15, 2011

Dinner Aug 13 - Indian Tandoori BBQ Chicken

This is a great Sunday Summer dinner--it's a delish BBQ chicken w/ a little spin on the ol' classic!  As we were eating this we both said how this dinner just screams SUMMER!!!  And since summer is officially winding to a close, with school going back soon :(, it's time to celebrate!!!  I got this recipe from www.kraftfoods.com; we loved it and I hope you do too!!

1/4 c BBQ sauce
1/4 c greek yogurt (I used all of my plain yogurt in my recipe last week and I didn' think blueberry would taste very good so I just skipped this part)
2 T lemon juice (again, didn't have this, so just used vinegar)
1 T oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 t cumin
1 t ginger
2 t curry powder
1/4 t chili powder
1 1/2 lb chicken drumsticks

Mix all ingredients except chicken in ziploc bag.  Reserve 1/4 c sauce.  Pour chicken in bag and turn to coat.  Marinate for 30 min, or as long as you have.  Heat grill to med-high.  Grill chicken for about 20-25 min, turning and brushing w/ reserved marinade occasionally.  We served this w/ some fresh-from-the-garden veggies and corn on the cob.  It was fantastic!!  Enjoy!!

Friday, August 12, 2011

Dinner Aug 12 - Crunchy Curried Chicken Salad

Hello everyone!!  I must say--I am pumped about tonight's dinner!!  Crunchy Curry salad???  I just sound welcoming!  I am a fan of curry and spice and, hey, if it has those words AND salad in the title--it's gotta be good, right??? ;) 

I got this recipe from a Pampered Chef book I bought a while back.  I am a PC fanatic and their cookbooks have taken a permanent spot on my recipe rack on the counter.  Love them!  Happy eating!!

1/2 cup whole cashews
1/2 c flaked coconut
1 T curry powder
2 T mango chutney (I don't want to use chutney, since it often has a lot of sugar in it.  So I bought a couple of mangos and I'm just going to chop them and add some splenda, salt and curry)
1/2 c plain yogurt (I like to use Greek)
3 boneless skinless chicken, cooked (I'll prob grill mine)
2/3 gr onions, sliced
4 c lettuce/mixed greens

Place cashews and coconut in skillet on med heat.  Toast until they become fragrant; about 2-3 min.
Mix mango, curry powder & yogurt.  Reserve 1/4 c dressing & mix the rest w/ the cooked chicken.
To assemble salad, layer lettuce, chicken, green onions.  Spoon mango mixture on top.  Sprinkle w/ cashews & coconut.  Drizzle w/ remaining dressing.  This sounds light & yummy and perfect for summer!  The kiddos prob won't eat the lettuce, so their chicken might be wrapped in a tortilla....making a curry burrito!  Enjoy!!

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Dinner Aug 11, 2011 - Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Veggie Kabobs

Good afternoon!!  It is a beautiful day here and I am very excited about firing up the grill for dinner!  Kabobs are a wonderful, versatile meal that everyone enjoys!  I mean--who doesn't love pulling meat off of a stick to eat it??  And if all else fails, the kids can always use the sticks in a sword fight after dinner :)  I say this b/c I can see this happening at my dinner table tonight.....;)  Tonight dinner once again comes from www.bettycrocker.com.  It is easy and yummy!!!

Marinade
1/4 c lemon juice
3 T Olive Oil
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and Pepper
4 cloves garlic, chopped (or 2 scoops from the jar in the fridge)

Chicken & Veggies
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
1 red bell pepper, cut into cubes
1 zucchini or squash, cut into cubes
1 red onion, cut into wedges

Mix marinade in Ziploc and add chicken.  Let sit in fridge for 30 min, or however long you have :)  Soak wooden skewers in cold water while the chicken is sitting. 

Heat grill to med-high.  Remove chicken from marinade and reserve.  Thread chicken, peppers, zucchini and onions onto skewers.  Brush veggies w/ marinate.  Grill for about 8-10 min, turning and brushing w/ marinade while cooking.  I am going to serve this w/ couscous and it's a meal!!  Happy eating :)

Dinner Aug 10, 2011 - Slow-Cooker Onion Pot Roast


Hello friends!  I hope your summer is still going well--and that your dinner's are superb!!!!  Tonight I bring you a meal that is nice when you're spending the evening outside and when you get indoors, the last thing you want to do is cook!!  This pot roast was super-easy to prep and was very tasty!!  I got i from www.bettycrocker.com - another favorite recipe site!!  I hope you enjoy!!

Slow Cooker Onion Pot Roast

1 - 4lb boneless beef chuck roast
Salt & Pepper
2 med onions, sliced
1 1/2 cups beef broth
3/4 cup beer (I omitted this, in an effort to reduce the sugar in this recipe.  I just made 2 cups broth for it)
2 T brown sugar (I used Splenda br sugar)
3 T spicy mustard
2 T cider vinegar (A great addition to meals; low in calories and sugar, while still adding tons of flavor!)

Place sliced onions in slow cooker.  Place beef on top.  In small bowl, mix broth, salt & pepper, brown sugar, mustard and vinegar.  Poor over meat and onions.  Cook on low for 8-10 hrs.  I served this w/ some pasta, for the kiddos, and peas.  It was a perfect meal!!! 

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Dinner Aug 9, 2011 - Grilled Chicken w/ Cucumber-Peach Salsa

Hello everyone!!  I thought I'd bring back the blog w/ a wonderful grilling recipe.  We rarely fire up our stove in the summer, but we often get stuck in the bratwurst/hamburger/chicken rut.  Boring!!!  So I've been searching up some new, fun, yummy grilling ideas!!  This one is brought to use by www.kraftfoods.com.  Again--LOVE them :)  Try this out and savor the last few weeks of the grill!!!

1/2 c chopped cuke
1/3 c peach preserves (In an effort to reduce the amount of sugar, I'm going to chopped and peel 2 peaches and put a little splenda on them.  This will bring out the natural sugars, while still adding the peach flavor)
1 T chopped mint
pinch salt
2 T chopped red onion
1 peach, peeled and chopped
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Heat grill.  In bowl, mix cuke, 2 T peach preserves, mint, salt and onion.  Coat chicken in a little olive oil, to keep it from sticking.  Grill 4-6 min per side, or until no longer pink.  Brush chicken w/ remaining peach preserves 2-3 times during cooking.  Discard remaining preserves.  Serve chicken w/ peach salsa and a little salad.  This should SCREAM summer!!!!  Enjoy my friends :)

Blogging Again!!!

Hello my lovely followers!!!  I am back blogging again!!!  Allow me to explain where I've been......my hubs and I started a very healthy (and boring) eating plan in June.  This meant that our dinners were way to 'chicken and veggie' to blog :)  We've both gotten in better shape and learned some good eating habits in the past few months.  And now I'm happy to share those with you!!  So I bring you------dinner blogs!!!!! 

PS--thanks for sticking with me and I can't wait to hear about your successes--and messes :)

Saturday, June 4, 2011

Dinner June 4, 2011 - Chicken Salad Wraps

Hello my friends!!  I hope your Saturday is turning out well!  It is very hot here, so I decided to make a light, yummy meal tonight.  This one is super-simple and very good!!

Chicken Salad Wraps

2 cans chicken, drained
1/2 c Dijon mustard dressing
1/4 cup yellow mustard
1 stalk celery, chopped
Salt and Pepper, to taste
4-5 heads of endive lettuce, w/ leaves peeled to form cups

Mix chicken, mustard's, celery and salt and pepper.  To serve, place small scoop of chicken mixture inside the endive wedges and enjoy!!!  It's sooo easy---and absolutely delicious!!! 

Dinner June 2, - Roast & Veggies

Tonight, I dove into my resources to come up w/ a delicious roast that had yummy veggies--and no potatoes!!  I turned to the forgotten vegetable--turnips!  So, here's the plan....

Roast and Veggies

1.5lb beef roast
2 turnips, peeled and cut into cubes
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 chili pepper, chopped and seeds taken out to adjust to spice preferences
1 gr chili, chopped and again--check the seeds
1T fresh thyme
1 T chopped chives
1 cup gravy--I used a chicken soup/gravy that was amazing!!

This can go in the crockpot in the morning--I used a baking dish I just got and just kept it in the oven all day on 200deg....your choice!! 

Place meat in crockpot/baking dish and sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides.  Place veggies and herbs on meat and top w/ gravy/soup mix.  Cook on low alllllll day---until it's yummy and tender and delish!!!!  This one brought the house down!!!  The kids wanted more--but there wasn't any!!  Enjoy friends!!!

Dinner June 3, 2011 - Not Good :(

I just wanted to let you know that not all meals turn out good!!  Made some Talapia tonight w/ an Asian sauce that just didn't turn out right.  Bummer :(  We ate it, b/c I didn't feel like making anything else--but it won't be going on the Repeat List--can't win 'em all!!!  On to another day!!!

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Dinner June 1, 2011 - Grilled Shrimp

Hello, my summer chefs!!  I hope the weather has you wanting to fire up the grill, fill up the kiddie pool and grab a beer while you flip some burgers....or tonight, some shrimp :)  We will be dining on yummy, grilled shrimp tonight--simple and tasty!!

Grilled Shrimp

1 lb raw, deveined shrimp, peel on
1 T garlic
2T Olive Oil
2 T Chives, chopped (this will add a little extra flavor--I'm trying to incorporate herbs into our menus--bear w/ me!!!)
1T Spicy Oregano (I found this herb plant at the nursery and had to have it!!  Not really sure what it is, or exactly how it tastes, but it sounds neat!!  You can always just use regular oregano)
Dash of salt
Wooden skewers

Heat grill to med-high.  In a ziploc bag, combine all ingredients--except skewers; the shrimp doesn't skewer itself ;)--Shake and let sit for about 10 minutes.  Soak skewers in cold water while shrimp sits.  Load shrimp onto skewers and grill, 3-4min per side.  We had this tonight w/ a small salad made of spinach, yellow peppers and mushrooms.  I might serve this w/ a side dish of Asian rice or noodles--those little packets you can buy at the store.  But I didn't have that here!!  This shrimp was yummy and made it feel like summer.  Enjoy :)

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Dinner May 31, 2011 - Asian Chicken

Tonight starts the first night in our new healthy-eating plan.  Learn to love, right?!?!  We will be having some chicken, veggies and a salad tonight.  I'm also trying to incorporate some new sauces/dressings into our menu that are a lot healthier.....I'll let ya know what they are and where I got 'em ;)  Tonight, I bring you....Asian Chicken :)

Asian Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 T Tamari Sauce (this is a gluten-free soy sauce, found in the health food section of the store.  You can also use plain-old soy sauce)
1 T fresh ginger, minced
10-12 asparagus spears, with about 2-3" chopped off the bottom stem (this is the tough part that you don't want to eat)
Salad for tonight: Spring Mix lettuce, w/ green peppers and cucumbers.  I've started using Walden Foods dressing; it is also found in the health-food section.  It's got less fat and calories and tastes yummy!!! 
2 cups hot, cooked rice--we won't be dining w/ this, but feel free to add it :)

Heat grill to med-high heat.  Salt and pepper chicken breasts and pour a little bit of oil over them, to keep from sticking.  Place in ziploc and add ginger.  Marinate for 30 min.  Grill 3-4 min per side.  Turn grill to low and coat w/ Tamari sauce.  Let sit for a few minutes, to let the sauce soak into the chicken.

While the chicken is cooking, coat the asparagus in salt and a little Olive Oil.  Grill alongside chicken, 8-10 minutes.  Watch carefully--it burns easily!!!  Serve chicken (over rice, if preferred), along w/ asparagus and salad.  It's a perfect, summery dinner to enjoy outside :)

I'm back.......!!!!!!!!

Hello everyone!!! This past month has just been plain crazy!!  But we are back from vacation--had a blast in Colorado!!--and ready to get back into blogging our dinners :) 

We have recently decided to make some changes in our eating--mainly, to eat healthier!!  I feel like meals full of sauce and pasta and gravy don't exactly scream 'live until you're 90'!!!  So you'll be seeing some changes in our menus....for the better--I promise!!!  I'll try to throw in some ideas for some starch-y add-ons just to satisfy the one's that crave the potatoes :) 

Happy Eating friends!!!

Monday, May 16, 2011

Dinner May 15, 2011 - Mushroom Ravioli

Hello my loyal chefs!!  First, let me give my deepest apologies for abandoning you last week!  It was a crazy week--let's just say that ;)  But I'm back now!!!  And I am STOKED to share this recipe with you.  Now, I LOVE a good rich, creamy, Italian dish.  I've been craving one so I decided to whip this one up.  OhMyGosh--it was amazing!!  The flavors compared to a restaurant!  Yes, I AM patting myself on the back :)  So I bring you....Mushroom Ravioli:

Mushroom Ravioli

1 store-bought pkg mushroom ravioli (or any other kind of ravioli you like)
1 c frozen peas
2 T Olive Oil
2T minced garlic (remember the stuff from the fridge--here's here you use it!!)
1 pkg cream cheese (the full-fat stuff ;)
1/2 c milk
Salt and Pepper

Cook the ravioli according to package directions, adding peas last 2 min of cooking.  In another skillet, heat oil over med heat.  Add garlic and cook lightly, 4-5min, careful not to burn.  Add cream cheese and use a whisk to help it melt.  Add milk (you may have to add a little more milk, depending on the consistency you want).  Add salt and pepper to taste.  Add cooked ravioli and peas.  That's it!!!  It was sooo yummy!!  We had it w/ some french bread and POOF!!!  Your magic Italian right in your own kitchen!!  Enjoy folks!!!

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Dinner May 4, 2011 - Crawfish Etouffee

Hello everyone!!!  First I would like to say hello to my new follower.....you know who you are ;-)  I am always excited when someone joins our dinner-crew! 

So, on to dinner tonight.  Crawfish Etouffee is a dish I have heard of a time or two......and I've seen people order it several times at a local seafood restaraunt we go to.  We went there for my mom's Bday a few weeks ago and my aunt got it--amazing!!!!!  So yummy--so I had to try it!  Etouffee is a dish that's similar to gumbo, but not quite as thick.  It's very spicy (be warned!!!!) and has a richness that leaves an impression on your tongue.  So tonight I bring you---Crawfish Etouffee.....

Crawfish Etouffee

2 lb Crawfish Tails (I only used 1lb b/c I wanted to try it first.  Also, they didn't have this at my local grocery store.  I had to stop at a seafood store to get it.  It ran about $13/lb; a little pricey, but sooooooo worth it!!)
1/4 lb butter
1 c onion, chopped
1/2 c bell pepper, chopped
1/2 c celery, chopped
2 T crawfish fat (I couldn't find this.  So the recipe says to just use more butter--can't go wrong there!!!)
2 c cold water
1 T cornstarch
1/4 c gr onion, chopped
1/4 c parsley
Creole seasoning blend, to taste *NOTE: this stuff is pretty salty.  I added salt in other parts and I wish I hadn't; it was too much.  So doing it again, I'd only use this seasoning as my salt)
Pinch dried thyme
Pinch dried oregano
1 bay leaf
2 cups hot, cooked rice

Season crawfish tails in bowl w/ cayenne and black pepper.  Heat butter in skillet w/ onion, pepper and celery.  Saute for about 5 min.  Add crawfish fat (or butter).  Add 1 1/2 c water, creole seasoning, thyme, oregano, bay leaf and crawfish tails.  Simmer on low for about 30 min.  Whisk cornstarch and and 1/2 cup cold water and add to skillet.  Add gr onion and parsley.  That's it!!!  Serve over hot cooked rice and enjoy!!

Note--I didn't serve this to the kiddos.  It was a little spicy!  I made extra rice and they gobbled it up w/ soy sauce.  I loved this one and I hope you will too!!!

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Dinner May 3, 2011 - Chicken Spaghetti

Dinner tonight came from a friend that I went to high school with.  There is a group of us that's trying to find new, healthy recipes--tasty ones that the whole fam will eat!  This one came to me and I tweaked it just a bit.  It was fantastic!!  Who doesn't love sauce, noodles and cheese?? ;-)  Happy dinner!!

Chicken Spaghetti

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
2 T Olive Oil
1 bell pepper, chopped
1/2 c onion, chopped
Salt and Pepper
1 can crushed tomatoes
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can tomato paste
1 can tomato sauce
1 T Oregano
1 T Crushed red peppers (adjust for heat level)
1/2 T Basil
Pinch of Rosemary
3 cups pasta--you choose
1 c shredded mozz

Heat oil in skillet.  Add chicken, peppers and onion.  Saute on med-high until chicken is no longer pink.  Add next 9 ingredients.  Simmer on low, as long as possible to allow the flavors to mesh.  Cook pasta according to directions on package.  Mix w/ pasta and place in baking dish.  Top w/ cheese and place in oven for 20 min.  Enjoy this yummy dish w/ some french bread and wine :) 

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Dinner Mat 1, 2011 - Glazed Talapia Fillets w/ Rice

Happy May Day!!!!  I hope your May is starting off superb :)  This recipe came from a Pampered Chef cookbook I have.  I tweaked it a little, b/c it wasn't on my menu and I didn't have all of the ingredients ;)  I hope you enjoy my version!!

Glazed Talapia Fillets w/ Rice

5-7 Talapia Fillets
1/2 c Teriakyi sauce
1/4 c water
1 T cornstarch
1 Box Yellow Rice (I use Zattiran's)
1 c frozen peas, thawed

Heat broiler on high.  Mix sauce, cold water and cornstarch in bowl w/ whist until smooth.  Simmer on low in saucepan, stirring w/ whisk, until thick.  Place fillet's in baking dish, sprayed w/ cooking spray, and brush about 1/2 of the glaze over the top of fish.  Broil 8-12min, or until fish flakes apart easily w/ fork.  *NOTE: I cooked it 8min first, then checked every 2min, until it was done.  This will ensure you don't overcook it, causing it to become rubbery. 

Cook rice according to box directions.  When done cooking, add peas.  Serve fish w/ rice and peas.  This was amazing!  Enjoy :)

Friday, April 29, 2011

Dinner Apr 28 - Cashew Chicken--The Healthy Way!!

Next in line to Mexican, comes my second favorite cuisine: Chinese!  I love to experiment w/ stir-fry and lo mien dishes....they are so easy to prepare, a wonderful way to clean out the fridge and a great way to incorporate some veggies into your meal!  This one came from http://www.bettycrocker.com/.  I got compliments from the fam--there wasn't much left!!  Check it out and enjoy!!!

Healthy Cashew Chicken

2 T Oil
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
1 teas ground ginger
1 bag frozen stir-fry veggies
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 teas crushed red peppers
3 T soy sauce
3 T teriakyi sauce
2 teas rice vinegar (I bought some of this awhile ago and use it in my Asian dishes; it lasts forever and is a good investment to have on hand)
1 T cornstarch
1 teas sugar
3 cups hot, cooked rice
1/2 cup cashews

Heat oil in skillet and cook chicken, ginger and red peppers 8-10min, until chicken is no longer pink.  Add veggies and saute until thawed; 4-6min.  Add 1/2 c broth.  Simmer on low.  Mix together  1/2 c broth, soy sauce, teriakyi sauce, vinegar, cornstarch and sugar.  Add to skillet and simmer on low until sauce is thick.  Add cashews and serve over rice.  Yum!!!

Dinner Apr 27, 2011 - Chicken Pot Pie

Hello everyone!  It was cold and rainy here on Wed.  And, since I vowed to have made my last soup of the season :), I had to search for something else to warm us up.  In swoops--chicken pot pie!!  I love making pot pie; I make it different every time....and each time it's wonderful :)  Below, is my latest recipe:

Chicken Pot Pie

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 c chicken broth
1 can cream of chicken
1/2 can cream of mushroom (Here I would have used cream of celery/potato....whatever I had on hand)
1/2 c milk, to make it smooth
2 cups mixed veggies, thawed
1 refrigerated pie crust
1 egg, beaten w/ a little water added

Heat oven to 400deg. Poach chicken in broth 15-20 min, or until no longer pink.  Cut chicken into cubes.  Mix soups and milk until smooth.  Add chicken, soup and veggies to baking dish.  Cover w/ pie crust and brush w/ egg.  Bake 20-25 min, or until crust is golden brown. 

This was delish!!  I hope you add it to your box of make-when-it's-nasty-out recipes :)

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Dinner Apr 25, 2011 - Caribbean Pork & Rice

Good evening!!!  I hope everyone is staying dry :)  It seems to be raining all over the country this week!  Tonight's dinner came from www.kraftfoods.com and It-Was-Amazing!!!  I don't cook w/ pork often; I'm too afraid I'll undercook it, so I just don't use it :)  But I LOVED this dish!  Peppers, rice, pineapple.....lots of make-me-feel-like-a-beachy-meal ingredients!!!!  Behold.....your dinner: 

Caribbean Pork & Rice

1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into cubes
2T Olive Oil
1T paprika
1 teas crushed red peppers
Salt & Pepper
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 carrots, chopped
1/2 green pepper, chopped
1/2 c chicken broth
2 c rice, uncooked
1 can pineapple chunks, undrained
3-4 tortillas, cut into strips

Heat oven to 350deg.  Place tortilla strips on baking sheet and bake 8-10 min, or until brown. 

Meanwhile, heat oil in skillet and add pork.  Add spices, onion, carrots and pepper.  Saute 10-12 min, or until pork is no longer pink and veggies are tender.  Add broth, rice and pineapple.  Cover and simmer on low 5-7 min, until rice is tender.  Serve the pork and rice w/ the baked tortilla strips.  I hope you enjoy!!

Monday, April 25, 2011

Back in the Saddle :)

Happy Monday to everyone!!!  I hope you all had a wonderful Easter.  It turned out to be a beautiful weekend for us.  Finally!!!  Now if this rain would just go away....

We had family in last week so there wasn't much dinner-making :)  We went out for my mom's birthday, had leftovers one night, and just had a good-ol' pizza night Sat!  For Easter, my husband made a prime rib that was To. Die. For.  Wow--I was in heaven!!  But that was a loooooong process and I had nothing to do w/ it, so I'm not going to blog it :) 

I'm back to our regular weekly dinners tonight, so stay tuned..... :)

Saturday, April 23, 2011

Dinner Apr 19, 2011 - Meatball Stroganauff

Hello everyone!  Tonight's dinner was actually started from an email I got, but then I adjusted it after I read it.  It was really tasty, but a little runny :)  I'll learn next time to adjust some ingredients :) 

Meatball Stroganauff

1 pkg frozen Italian-Style meatballs (in the freezer section, next to the lunch/appetizer items)
2 cups beef broth (I don't usually buy beef broth; I just keep bullion cubes in the cabinet and add water)
1 container Philly Cooking Creme-Italian Style (I wasn't a big fan of the plain, but the flavored stuff rocks!)
Salt and Pepper
1 lb linguine noodles

Heat the meatballs in the broth on low, to thaw and warm; reserve broth for sauce.  Heat pan on med heat and add cooking creme.  Use broth in spoonfulls to thin sauce to desired consistency.  Add salt and pepper to taste.  Cook noodles according to directions on package.  Add meatballs and cooked noodles to sauce and serve!! 

We had this w/ some peas (you could add the peas to the sauce and serve w/ the meatballs) and some bread.  It was delish!!  The meatballs were a little soft, but they tasted amazing.  Next time I think I will cook the meatballs in a skillet also, so they are a little more firm. 

Happy Meatballs :)

Dinner Apr 18, 2011 - Chicken Nachos, Made-Over

Hello everyone!  I hope you are all doing well and your meals have been turning out fabulous!  Tonight's dinner comes to you from http://www.kraftfoods.com/.  Now, you know me--and you know that I love some good nachos :)  But they are soooooo unhealthy!!!  So I pounced on this recipe when I saw it.  I'll give you my comments after I show you the recipe......

Chicken Nachos, Made-Over

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 c salsa (I mixed half med, half hot)
1 c shredded cheese
1 c crushed tortilla chips
2 cups hot, cooked rice
Juice of 1 lime
Handful of torn Cilantro
Sour Cream, for topping

Heat oven to 350deg.  Place chicken breasts in 9x13 pan (coated w/ cooking spray) and cover w/ salsa (*here I would have topped w/ some frozen corn also, but I was out).  Bake 20-30 min, or until chicken is pink.  Top w/ chips and cheese and bake another 5min. 

While chicken is baking, mix rice w/ lime juice and cilantro.  Top rice w/ baked chicken and then w/ sour cream. 

This dish was okay; the flavors weren't quite as spicy or as prominent as I would have liked, but when you're trying to bake a little lighter w/ Mexican food--you gotta give somewhere!  It was good, but I think I'll maybe add a little taco seasoning onto the chicken next time......

I hope you enjoy!!

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Dinner Apr 17, 2011 - Pecan-Crusted Chicken w/ Sweet Mustard Sauce

Good evening my lovely chefs :)  I hope your weekend was well and that you were able to enjoy some warm weather.  I've been doing this blog for almost 2 months now and I love it!  Not only does it help others, it helps me to not repeat the same dinner week after week!  I hope it's doing the same for you.  I'm enjoying seeing your success......and disasters :)  I'm so proud of you guys for trying new things on your families and for taking the step to make a homemade meal; it speaks wonders about the amazing person you are.  Keep up the good work kiddos!! 

Now that it's getting warmer, I'm slipping back into my grilling-days :)  This is not completely bad, but on some nights, using the grill means brats or burgers--not healthy at all :(  But I love' em!  So I'm going to try to limit those by forcing myself to blog recipes and make them!!  So, without further ado--I give you my Pecan-Crusted Chicken.  Enjoy :)

Pecan-Crusted Chicken w/ Mustard Sauce

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 c pecans, crushed
1 c bread crumbs
1 teas cayenne pepper
Salt and Pepper
2 eggs, beaten w/ a little water
1/2 - 1 c veg oil, for cooking

Mustard Sauce

2 T Stone-ground mustard (first time I've ever bought this stuff!)
1/4 c peach preserves
1 T cider vinegar
1/2 teas garlic, minced
Dash of salt
1/4 - 1/2 c Olive Oil

Heat veg oil in skillet over med-high heat.  Meanwhile, mix pecans, crumbs, cayenne and s&p.  Dredge chicken strips in egg mixture, then pecan mixture and fry in skillet w/ oil, 3-4 min per side.  Drain on paper towels.  Mix ingredients for sauce, adjusting sweetness w/ peach preserves as needed.  I served this dish w/ chicken, sauce, couscous and some french bread.  It was pretty good!!  The kids both gobbled it up and my hubs loved the sauce!  Happy dinners!!

Friday, April 15, 2011

Dinner Apr 15, 2011 - Veggie Soup :)

Hello friends!!!  Tonight, I'm turning to an old fav--veggie soup, yum!!  It's cold and rainy here and I don't think I can go wrong w/ a nice, warm pot of soup.  This recipe is on my blog already, so I won't type it again.  I'll prob serve it w/ some french bread and there's my meal :)  I hope your weekend is relaxing and wonderful!! 

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Dinner Apr 13, 2011 - Corn Chowder

Good evening my friends!!  I hope your week is going well.  The weather here is beautiful--I just hope it lasts!!!  Tonight's dinner is from my aunt.  She made it for some family a while back; I wasn't there to enjoy it, but they sent me the recipe and I really wanted to try it!  It's very easy and turned out wonderful!!  I hope you enjoy :)

Corn Chowder

2 med unpeeled red potatoes
1 cup cooked ham, cubed
1/2 c diced red pepper (forgot this :)
1/2 chopped celery
1 t butter
2 T flour
2 c chicken broth
1 can evaporated milk
1 can cream corn
2 T gr onions
Salt and Pepper
Cooked, crumbled bacon (again, didn't add this.  I hate frying bacon.....maybe I should buy some of that microwave bacon.....)

Heat butter in soup-pot.  Saute pepper and celery 3-4 min.  Whisk in flour and cook about 2 min.  Add broth, milk and corn.  Add potatoes and cook on low until potatoes are tender.  Add ham and allow to warm.  Top w/ bacon and onions and serve!!  I made some freezer-yeast rolls and it was soooooo good!!!  Happy last-soup-of-the-season :)

Dinner Apr 12, 2011 - Mexican Casserole

Hello everyone!!!  I owe you a few days worth of meals :)  Dinner tonight was from one of my best friends from high school.  She sent this to me and I knew I'd have to try it--and we LOVED it!!  The kiddos picked around the onions a bit, but it tasted amazing.  I was going to serve it w/ corn bread, but ran out of time :)  I hope you enjoy!!

Mexican Casserole

1 lb ground beef
1 pkg taco seasoning
1/4 c water
1 c diced onion (I used a little less)
1 bag of tortilla chips 
1 can of chili beans--don't drain (I used kidney b/c I didn't have chili)
1 can of rotel, drained
1 can of cream of chicken soup
1 c shredded cheese 
Green onion (as I'm typing this I realized I forgot these--oops!!)

Heat oven to 350deg.  Brown ground beef and drain.  Mix taco seasoning and water.  Place in skillet w/ onion and saute a bit.  Crush the tortilla chips and place in the bottom of casserole dish.  Layer the meat mixture on top of the chips, then the chili beans. Then mix the rotel and cream of chicken soup together and layer that on top of the chili beans.  Place the shredded cheese and gr onions on top.  Top it off with the shredded cheese and green onions.  Bake for about 45 min.  We ate this w/ sour cream---delish!!!

Monday, April 11, 2011

Dinner Apr 10, 2011 - Chicken Kabobs

Hello everyone!!  It's grillin' time!!  I love this time of year; grill some dinner while the kids play in the yard and you enjoy a glass of wine.....sigh :)  Tonight's dinner came from http://www.kraftfoods.com/, but I had to change some things up b/c I was out of some things :)  So here's my version of some delightful, sweet chicken kabobs....

Chicken Kabobs

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
1T paprika
1/2 T cayenne
Salt and Pepper
2 T Olive Oil
1 can pineapple chunks, reserve the juice when draining
Wooden skewers
1/2 c BBQ sauce
1 box couscous (cooked using 2 cups broth instead of water :)
1 loaf french bread (yep, Schwan's again!)

Heat the grill on med-high.  Place chicken, spices and oil into ziploc and shake to coat.  Soak skewers in cold water for about 15 min to keep them from burning.  Alternate chicken and pineapple on skewers.  Grill about 4-6 min per side.  Mix pineapple juice and BBQ sauce.  Brush on kabobs while cooking, being careful not to get too much b/c it'll make the grill flame-up.  Serve w/ couscous and bread--quite a meal!!!  I hope you enjoy this my friends :)

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Dinner Apr 7, 2001 - Beef Enchiladas

Hello my lovely cooks :)  I am sorry I have been absent for a few days; it's been crazy around here!!  We had a friend over for dinner on Thursday and I decided to make her these tasty enchiladas!  I had a recipe for them, but once I read it I didn't like it so I adjusted it a bit :)  Below, you will find an amazing Mexican delight!!!

Beef Enchiladas

1lb ground beef
1 pkg taco seasoning
1/4 c water
1/2 c salsa (I used half medium, half hot)
1 can enchilada sauce
1 1/2 c shredded cheese, divided
8-10 flour tortillas
Sour cream and lettuce, optional

Heat oven to 350deg.  Brown meat in skillet until no longer pink; drain.  Return meat to pan.  Mix taco seasoning w/ water and add to beef.  Add salsa, sauce and 1 c cheese.  Mix and simmer on low for 10 min.  This makes the flavors mix and taste extra super-yummy :)  Fill tortillas and place in 9x13 pan.  Pour any remaining mixture over rolled enchiladas.  Top w/ cheese and bake for about 20-25min, until cheese is bubbly.  This dish was awesome!!  I topped it w/ the lettuce and sour cream and served it w/ some Spanish rice.  Voila--a meal!!!  I hope you enjoy :)

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Dinner Apr 5, 2011 - Shrimp Tacos w/ Rice

Good evening!!  Dinner tonight was wonderful!  The thought of some lovely, fresh shrimp tacos while it's sunny and warm outside just makes me smile :)  Well, it wasn't quite as warm as I would have liked, but I'll take what I can get :)  These tacos were delish and soooo easy!  Below, I lead you to an evening that will make you feel like you're on a beach w/ a little umbrella drink...... ;)

Shrimp Tacos w/ Rice

1 lb raw, peeled & deveined shrimp
2T Olive Oil
1 tsp of EACH of the following:
- garlic powder
- onion salt
- cayenne (adjust to your heat-liking)
- paprika
- chipotle powder
2 tsp chili powder
tortilla shells, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, salsa
2 cups hot, cooked rice
juice from 2 limes
2T fresh cilantro

Heat oven to 350 and place tortillas, covered in foil, in oven to warm while preparing dinner.
Heat skillet on med-high.  Place shrimp, oil and spices in ziploc and shake to coat.  Cook in skillet 5-7 min or until shrimp is pink.  Stir rice w/ lime juice and cilantro.  Serve tacos w/ shrimp, toppings and rice inside warm tortillas....paradise :)  Enjoy my friends!!

Oopsies :)

I want to tell everyone that I omitted a part of the Mango-Orange Chicken.....you are supposed to use the 2c chicken broth to cook the couscous.  I didn't say at all how to use it :)  Sorry guys!!!!

Monday, April 4, 2011

Dinner Apr 4, 2011 - Easy Stuff!!

Hello my fellow-followers!!  I hope your Monday is treating you well.  Mine is about to get better--because I've got book club tonight!!  It's my fav night of the month!!!!  So that leaves me w/ a nice, easy dinner to make for the fam....sloppy joes, I see you in my future :)  I've already posted this recipe, so I won't re-post it :)  Feel free to serve up some super-sloppy joes or pull up another recipe from days' past!!!  Enjoy!!

Thursday, March 31, 2011

Dinner Mar 31, 2011 - Penne w/ Tomatoes & Smoked Mozz

Hello everyone!  I hope your Thursday is treating you well and your meals have been delightful :)  Tonight's dinner has been on my meal list for a few weeks now, but I've been nervous to make it.  Mainly b/c I was worried about the smoked cheese.  Sometimes smokey cheese can add way too much to 'smoke-ness' flavor to the dish.  So I finally decided to make it tonight; I had to work so the hubs had to feed the kids :)  he he!  Anyway--it turned out really well.  I got it from www.kraftfoods.com, but adapted the recipe a bit.  It called for jar Alfredo sauce, but I made my own.  I had some when I got home and really enjoyed it.  Below---I give you a noodl-ey dish full of smokey cheese :)

Penne w/ Tomatoes & Smoked Mozz

3 c Penne (or whatever noodles you have)
2 T Olive Oil
1 T minced garlic
Salt & Pepper
1 block cream cheese
1/2 - 3/4 c milk
1 cup frozen peas
1 can diced tomatoes, drained
4 oz smoked mozzarella

Heat oven to 350.  Spray casserole dish w/ cooking spray and set aside.  Cook pasta according to directions on package.  Heat oil in skillet on med heat and add garlic.  Saute for 2-3 min, then add cream cheese and enough milk to make a creamy consistency.  Cook on low until cheese is melted.  Add peas and cook 2-3 min, until peas are thawed, then add tomatoes and cooked pasta.  Spoon all into dish and top w/ sliced cheese.  Bake 25-30min.  I served this w/ garlic bread and some wine for the big kids :)  Enjoy!

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Dinner Mar 30, 2011 - Pizza Night

Pizza night--'nuf said.  I love pizza night :)  Make a call and wait for dinner to arrive on the table.....the good life!

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Dinner Mar 29, 2011 - Mango-Orange Chicken

Kiddos--tonight's dinner was a H.I.T!!!!  I mean--both kids cleaned their plates, there was nothing left for my hubs to take for lunch tomorrow, and they wanted more!!!  Seriously!  I enjoyed it also, but when the monkeys devour a meal like this--it's a keeper!!

Mango-Chicken Chicken w/ Couscous

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 T ginger powder
1 T cinnamon
2 T Olive Oil
1 mango, cubed
2 stalks green onion (they called for red onion, but I didn't  have any)
1/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup Kraft Asian Toasted Sesame dressing (don't skimp here; use the real stuff)
2 T cilantro
1 box instant couscous
2 Cups broth (beef or chicken)

Heat oil on med-high on skillet.  Sprinkle chicken w/ ginger and cinnamon.  Cook chicken on both sides 3-5 min, or until no longer pink.  Meanwhile, cook couscous according to directions on package.  Mix remaining ingredients in bowl.  Serve chicken over couscous and top w/ mango mix.  I served this w/ corn and we loved it!!!

A Delightful Lunch Item :)

Hello everyone.  I know I'm always dishing out dinner meals, but today I threw together (literally, no planning whatsoever) a sandwich that I think peeps will love!!!  It would be an amazing lunch or dinner meal--Blackened Chicken Sandwich

Blackened Chicken Sandwich

1 boneless skinless chicken breast
2 T Olive Oil
1 T garlic powder
1 T Paprika
1/2 T Cayenne
Salt & Pepper
1 hamburger bun
mayo
1 slice provalone cheese
lettuce
fresh cilantro

Heat skillet on med-high.  Sprinkle chicken w/ oil and spices.  Cook on both sides about 3-5 min per side (I would have grilled it here, but it was FREEZING outside!!!).  Serve chicken on bun w/ mayo, cheese, lettuce and cilantro.  It was amazing!! 

Monday, March 28, 2011

Dinner Mar 28, 2011 - Tacos :)

Hello my friends!!  Tonight we dined on delicious, delightful, yummy tacos!!!  I wanted something simple, good and pleasing to everyone.  This dinner was it!  I hope all of you enjoy our little Mexican nights as much as we do :)  Ciao!!!

Dinner Mar 27, 2011 - Chicken Alfredo

Hello everyone!  I hope the weekend has been fantastic so far.  Dinner tonight is brought to you from a recipe that I've made a ton.  I adapt it every time I make it!  This evening I'm trying the new Cooking Creme from Philly.  I used it once last week and I love it! And so I present to you....Chicken Alfredo w/ Green Beans and French Bread.....

Chicken Alfredo

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 cups chicken broth
1 lb fettuccine noodles
2 T Olive Oil
1 T garlic powder
1 T onion salt
Ground Pepper
Philly Cooking Creme - Plain

Place the chicken in pot and cover w/ broth (use a little water if needed, to ensure the chicken is covered).  Boil about 15-20min, or until chicken is no longer pink.  Remove chicken and set aside, reserving broth.  In large skillet, spread oil around pan and add spices.  Cook on med heat a few minutes, careful not to burn.  Slice chicken across the grain and add to skillet.  Saute a few minutes, allowing the chicken to become coated in the spices.  Add the Cooking Creme and about 1/2-1 cup broth to make a creamy consistency.  Cook noodles according to package directions and add to chicken.  Enjoy w/ green beans and bread!!

Green Beans

1 pkg Steamers green beans (I get mine from Schwan's)
2 T Olive Oil
1 T minced garlic
Salt and Pepper

Cook beans according to package directions.  Heat oil and spices in skillet and add beans when they are done.  Saute for about 6-8 min on low, letting the beans become coated in the spices.  That's it!!!

Again, I used a loaf of frozen French bread--super simple!! 

I hope you enjoy this Italian classic that's simple to pull together.  Happy Cooking!!!

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Dinner Mar 24, 2011 - Pad Thai Shrimp

Hello Hello Hello!!!  I am sooo ready for Friday!!  We got some cold weather--boooo--but I think it's just the VERY last of it....spring is almost here :) 

Tonight, we will all be dining on a recipe I have never tried before, as well as a cuisine I have never cooked before--Thai food.  I'm excited!!!  I've made Indian and Mediterranean before, but never Thai.  Let's hope all pallets are pleased :)

Ladies and Gentleman....I bring you: Pad Thai Shrimp

Pad Thai Shrimp

4 cups water
1 pkg linguine-style rice noodles (I found what I think is this, but really not sure....)
1/3 c lime juice
1/3 c water
3 T br sugar
1/4 c soy sauce or fish sauce (fish sauce--that's just gross)
1 T rice vinegar
3/4 tsp cayenne pepper
3 T veg oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 med shallot (I never use these--I just use an onion!)
2 eggs, beaten
12 oz frozen cooked, peeled and deveined shrimp, thawed
1/4 cup bean sprouts (yeah--I didn't even buy this!!)
4 med gr onions, sliced
1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves

Here we go....
I saucepan, heat 4c water to boiling.  Remove from heat; add noodles.  Soak noodles 3-5 minutes, or until soft.  Drain and rinse w/ cold water.  (Here, we'll see if these are the kind I got.  I may be trying a new method!!)
In small bowl, stir lime juice, water, br sugar, soy/fish sauce, vinegar, cayenne and 1T oil until mixed.  In skillet, heat 2T oil over med heat.  Cook garlic and shallot about 30sec, stirring constantly.  Add eggs.  Cook 2 min, stirring until scrambled. 
Stir in noodles and lime juice mixture.  Increase heat to high and cook about 1 min, tossing constantly.  Sauce should begin to thicken.  Add remaining ingredients, except cilantro.  Cook 2-3min, tossing.  Garnish w/ cilantro.

I hope you enjoy this--I'm really looking forward to it!  I'll let you know how it goes :)

A BIG Super-Duper Thank You :)

I would like to thank all of my current followers and all of my new ones!!  You guys are why I do this.  I LOVE the idea of helping people out when you're just not feeling the 'What's For Dinner???' questions :)  I hope we drum tons of support--tell your friends!!!  I love you guys!!!!!!

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Dinner Mar 23, 2011 - Pizza Casserole

Good afternoon my lovely food-lovers!  I hope everyone is having a wonderful Wednesday.  It is beautiful here and we have been outside enjoying the weather b/c I heard some nasty stuff is on the way--boo.  Not a fan of snow in late March. 

Tonight's dinner comes to you, once again, from http://www.bettycrocker.com/.  We will be dining on Pizza Casserole w/ breadsticks.  This casserole looks scrumptious--sausage, pasta, olives, cheese.....yum!  This is a super kid-friendly meal :)  Hope you enjoy!

Pizza Casserole

2 cups uncooked pasta
1 lb sausage
2 1/3 cups pasta sauce (I sometimes like to make my own, but tonight I'll be using canned :)
sliced olives
1 can mushrooms, pieces & stems (I'm not adding these--I'm the only  one in my fam that likes 'shrooms)
1 cup shredded mozz cheese

Heat oven to 350deg.  Cook pasta according to directions on package.  Brown sausage in skillet, drain.  Mix sausage, noodles, sauce, olives & mushrooms in casserole dish.  Cover and bake about 30min.  Uncover, sprinkle w/ cheese and bake another 5 minutes, until cheese is melted. 

We'll be having frozen breadsticks w/ this one tonight.  Happy pizza-eating!!!

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Dinner Mar 22, 2011 - Chicken Capri Pasta

Hello my fellow chefs!!  I hope your Tuesday is treating everyone well.  I've started my spring cleaning and I'm loving my sparkling house :)  I did my bi-weekly shopping today.  Had to use two carts!  I was a little low on some things :)  Tonight we will be dining on Chicken Capri Pasta, a salad and some french bread.  Sounds delightful!!  This recipe uses something new called Philadelphia Cooking Creme.  I've never used the stuff before, but I do make my own Alfredo sauce by melting down cream cheese, so I'm excited to try this stuff!! 

I got this recipe from http://www.kraftfoods.com/.  They've got some new spring recipes out and I love the new stuff!  Here we go....

Chicken Capri Pasta

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
1/2 cup red pepper strips
1 cup frozen broccoli
1 tub savory garlic Cooking Creme (I couldn't find the savory so I'm using plain and adding garlic)
2 cups cooked angel hair pasta
1/4 cup shredded parm cheese

Cook and stir chicken, 1 T minced garlic and peppers in skillet 5-7min, or until chicken is done.  Stir in broccoli and cook 2-3min, until heated through.  Add cooking creme, cook 2-3min, until heated.  Serve over pasta, sprinkled w/ cheese. 

I'm making a dinner salad and using my ol' reliable Schwan's french bread.  That's dinner!!

Monday, March 21, 2011

Dinner Mar 21, 2011 - Stuffed Burritos

Another Mexican!!!  I haven't had a burrito in awhile so I decided to throw the last of our pantry Mexican items into a skillet and make a dinner!  Shopping tomorrow means we're running low on supplies :)  I hope you dig into this dinner w/ a margarita and finish it off w/ some fried ice cream--yum!!

Stuffed Burritos

1 lb ground beef
2 pks taco seasoning
1/4 cup water
1/2 can refried beans
1 cup hot, cooked rice
tortillas
lettuce, cheese, sour cream, tomatoes, salsa

Brown beef and drain.  Add taco seasoning, water, beans and rice.  Cook this mixture on low for about 6-8 minutes to allow the flavors to mesh.  Serve inside tortillas w/ the toppings of your choice.  These were amazing and my son ate 2!!  Enjoy!

Dinner Mar 18, 2011 - Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry

Hello everyone!  Just saying the name of this dinner makes me smile.  I love stir-fry's and their amazing ability to adapt to any protein you add (or lack thereof) and to clean out your crisper!  Let me tell you folks--I make a mean stir-fry :)  I've used several different recipes over the years and this one I like because of its flavors.  Check it out......

Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry & Eggrolls

1 lb boneless skinles chicken, cut into cubes
2 T Zesty Italian Dressing
2 T ginger powder
3 T soy sauce
1-2 T crushed red peppers (adjust to your tastes)
1 bag frozen stir-fry veggies
2 eggs
2 cups hot cooked rice

Heat dressing in skillet and add chicken.  Sprinkle ginger, soy and peppers on chicken.  Cook chicken until done--8-10 minutes.  Add veggies and cook about 5 minutes, until they are warm.  Push mixture to side of pan and crack eggs in open spot in skillet.  Scramble in side of pan until they are cooked, then mix w/ chicken & veggies.  Serve over rice and enjoy :)

For eggrolls--I like to buy frozen and cook in oven :)

Hello Again!!

Hello hello hello!!  I'm back!!  It's been a busy, busy week.  Thus explaining why I've slacked on my blogging :(  Not cool.  I apologize kiddos.  But I do want to tell everyone this--it's offcially grilling season!!!  YES!!!!!  We have lots of nights w/ brats and cheeseburgers, baked beans and some chips.  Here's to summer!!

I'm back on my game.....shopping again tomorrow.  Our list includes Chicken Capri Pasta, Shrimp Tacos and Pad Thai Shrimp.  Yummers :)  Stay tuned my friends.......

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Dinner Mar 16, 2011 - Brats & Beans

Hello my summer-loves :)  I am loving this weather!!  Tonight we began our summer ritual of grillin' on the deck & playin' on the swing set :)  I love this time of year!  We had a dinner that was delish, and super-easy.   I like to buy brats from the meat dept at my grocery store, and then freeze them in packs of 5: 1 for me, 1 for the kids, 2 for my hubby tonight & one for him for lunch tomorrow--perfect!  We grilled the brats, heated some canned beans and had a salad.  It was soooo good and soooo summer-y :)  I hope you had a wonderful day w/ some amazing weather.  Here's to grilling season!!

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Dinner Lately

Hello my friends!  I would like to first welcome our new follower.  Thanks for joining :)

I want to apologize for not posting the last couple of days.  Last night, everything came to a hault b/c the finale of The Bachelor was on (Fingers crossed for Brad & Em!!!!) and tonight we went out to dinner with my mom.  Good times!!!!  Tomorrow, I promise I'll be back to cooking! 

Monday, March 14, 2011

Freezer Meals 101

Hello to all!  I have had a request for some freezer meals.  A mom who works full-time and is raising two kids on her own during the week while her hubby works out of town is in need of some good, family meals that are easy to make when she comes home from work.  Below, I give you my solution.....I hope these help!!!

Spaghetti Sauce
Meal #1-Spaghetti, garlic bread and green beans
Meal #2-Meatball Subs, celery and ranch and cottage cheese

Spaghetti Sauce

2-4 T Olive Oil
2 T butter
1 medium onion, chopped
3-4 T minced garlic
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 large cans crushed tomatoes
1 can stewed tomatoes, blended slightly (use blender, magic bullet, food processor...)
3 cans tomato sauce
3 T Italian Seasoning
1 T Sage
2 T Parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste

Heat oil in large stock pot on med-high heat.  Add butter, onions, garlic and pepper.  Sauté 6-8 min or until onions are soft, being cautious not to burn the garlic.
Add crushed tomatoes, stewed tomatoes and tomato sauce.  Simmer on med heat for 10 min, then add herbs and salt and pepper to taste.  Cook this for a couple of hours, allowing the flavors to come together.

Divide this in half and place in ziplocs once it's cooled.  Grab one of the bags before you leave in the morning and throw it on the counter so it will be thawed when you get home. 

Meal #1 - Spaghetti, garlic bread and green beans

1 portion spaghetti sauce
1 lb spaghetti
1 box frozen garlic bread sticks
1 bag steamers green beans (I get mine from Schwan's)

Place one portion spaghetti sauce in a sauce pan.  Cook noodles according to directions and put into sauce when they are done.  Allow to simmer together while you cook bread sticks and green beans according to directions.  Voila!!  It's a meal :)

Meal #2 - Meatball subs, celery and ranch and cottage cheese

1 portion spaghetti sauce
1 lb frozen meatballs (thawed in fridge all day)
4 hoagie buns
1 cup mozzarella cheese
1 stalk celery, trimmed and cut into sticks
Ranch dressing
Cottage cheese

Heat oven to 400deg.  Place spaghetti sauce and meatballs in pan and allow to warm.  Once warm, cut open hoagie buns and fill w/ 2-3 meatballs and sauce and top w/ cheese.  Place in oven 6-8 min or until cheese is melted.  Serve with celery and ranch and cottage cheese.  Enjoy!!

Taco Meat
Meal #1 - Good Ol' Tacos!!
Meal #2 - Enchiladas

Taco Meat

2 lbs ground beef
3 pks taco seasoning
1 cup water

Brown meat in large skillet, drain.  Mix taco seasoning and water in bowl.  Return meat to pan and cook on low while you stir in seasoning.  Cook on low for about 5 minutes.  Divide into two portions; freeze one portion in a Ziploc for tacos and follow directions for enchiladas w/ other portion. 

Meal #1 – Tacos
1 portion taco meat
10-12 hard shell tacos or tortillas
Toppings: shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, green onions, salsa
Thaw meat in fridge overnight or on counter all day.  Place in pan on med heat and allow to warm.  Heat shells/tortillas according to directions on package.  Serve tacos with toppings and enjoy!  This one’s SOOOO easy!!!

Meal #2 – Enchiladas
1 portion taco meat
1 can enchilada sauce
½ cup salsa
6-8 tortillas
1 cup shredded cheese
Toppings: sour cream, salsa, green onions

To prepare for freezing: mix meat, sauce and salsa.  Fill tortillas and place in 9”x13” pan.  Top with cheese.  Place plastic wrap tightly over pan and freeze. 
When you are ready to cook: take out of freezer and place in fridge overnight or on counter all day.  Heat oven to 350.  Remove plastic wrap and heat 30-45min, or until warm inside.  Serve w/ toppings and a box of Spanish rice.  Yummy!!!

And for Friday night—pizza!!!  Nothing quite screams ‘IT’S FRIDAY!!!!’ like ordering a pizza.  Have a movie night, or if it’s warm, eat on the deck and play until the sun goes down.  Now THAT’S what ring’s in the weekend J

Dinner Mar 13, 2011 - Hamburger Soup

Good Monday morning to all of my chefs!!  I hope everyone had a fabulous weekend :)  I gotta say--I LOVE DST!!!!  How awesome is it that it's still daylight at 730pm??  Now, for the warmth :)  Soon......

I would like to point out that a suggestion was made to me over the weekend--someone asked if I could include the recipe name in the blog title.  This will make searching easier.  I have also been told by more than one person that the mashed potatoes in the Swiss Chicken recipe were To. Die. For.  And folks, I gotta say:  I TOLD YOU SO!!!!!!!  Are they not the most delish, scrumptious, delightful thing EVER?!?!?!  And having said that, let's move on :)

For dinner last night I bring you a recipe that I guarantee will be put on the shelf in your recipe pantry--Hamburger Soup.  This recipe was just given to me last week by a neighbor.  She told me she was having it for dinner and I marveled.  I was even more intrigued when she said it was healthy.  Yes!!  So she brought me a bowl for lunch and I was hooked!  We had it last night with a salad and I'm stoked to have it again for lunch today!!  Ladies, I give you: Hamburger Soup......

Hamburger Soup

1 lb of hamburger
16 oz diced tomatoes (I didn't have these on hand so I used a can of crushed tomatoes instead)
12 oz tomato juice
7 cups of water
1 green pepper, chopped
1 c celery, chopped
2-4 carrots, chopped
1-2 potatoes, chopped
2 tsp garlic powder
1Tbsp soy sauce
1/2 tsp Paprika
1/2 c rice
3-4 beef boullion cubes
Salt and Pepper

Brown beef and drain.  Mix the remaining ingredients and simmer on low heat, stirring often for several hours.  That's it!!!  I added a little more water b/c I wanted my soup to be more broth-y.  We served it w/ the salad and some saltines w/ butter.  I hope you all try this one and enjoy :) 

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Dinner Mar 10, 2011

Hello chefs!  Today is dreary and feels like a lazy day.......considered ordering pizza or something, but then I found this recipe--Creamy Chicken and Rigatoni; sounds yummy and warm :)  I hope you enjoy.....

Creamy Chicken and Rigatoni

1 T Olive Oil
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
2 T garlic, minced (thank you, jar of pre-minced garlic :)
2 teaspoons dried basil
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 can diced tomatoes (I've recently learned my hubby doesn't like diced tomatoes--yep, never knew that!!  So now I'm throwing them into the Magic Bullet to blend them a bit.  2 cans also seems like a lot; I'll probably only use 1)
2 cups heavy cream
Salt and pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 1/2 cups rigatoni (I don't like rigatoni; I think it's too big, so I'm using penne)
1 pkg frozen broccoli, red peppers, onions and mushrooms (I just bought a bag of frozen veggies--couldn't find this exact mix)
Shredded Parm (I like to keep a block of fresh parm in the fridge; nothing adds flavor to an Italian dish like fresh grated parm :)

Heat oil (it says in a Dutch oven but really???  Who has one of those and do you really use it???  I'll take a skillet, please!) and cook chicken, garlic, basil and oregano in oil until chicken is no longer pink.  Stir in tomatoes, cream, salt, pepper and cayenne.  Heat to boiling, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 min.  Cook pasta according to directions, then mix pasta and veggies w/ chicken and simmer until hot.  Enjoy! 

We'll prob have this one w/ one of those wonderful loaves of bread from Schwan's :) 

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Dinner Mar 9, 2011

Tonight, my people's, I bring to you Wild West Sizzlin' Chicken Tacos!!!  Woot Woot!!!  You know we are Mexican lover's around here and I'm so pumped about this one!  Again, we get our delights from http://www.bettycrocker.com/.  If you haven't checked them out--do so!!  And be sure to sign up for emails; you can customize them for whatever kinds of meals you're looking for.  Enjoy.....

Wild West Sizzlin' Chicken Tacos

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
Olive Oil
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Taco Shells
Red bell pepper, cut into strips (forgot to grab this at the store--oh well :)
1 cup BBQ baked beans
1 cup shredded cheese
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (again, not adding this.  I hate frying bacon)

Heat oven to 400deg.  Heat skillet on med-high and add oil.  Toss chicken w/ cumin and paprika and cook, 8-10 min, until no longer pink.  Arrange taco shells in baking dish (haven't figured out yet how I'm going to make them stand up...), and fill w/ chicken, pepper, beans, cheese and bacon.  Bake about 8 min.  Top w/ salsa, sour cream and green onions, if desired.  Delish!!

We are going to be having this one w/ some Spanish rice--I like Rice-a-Roni.  Their rice is yummy, creamy and delightful :) 

Enjoy your dinner!!

Critic's Review

Hello my lovely ladies :)  I'm hoping your Wed is going well.  Rainy here, but manageable.  I have to tell you that last night's dinner was AMAZING!!!  The kids gobbles it up, my husband gobbled it up, I gobbled it up :)  Love it!  Make sure you add this one to your 'try it' list and let me know what you think.  Yum!

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Dinner Mar 8, 2011

Happy Tuesday!  Dinner tonight is in the crock-pot as we speak!  I love using my crock-pot and do so whenever I come across a good meal.  Tonight's dinner comes from http://www.bettycrocker.com/.  It's a Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken.  Yum! 

Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken

3 slices bacon (I didn't put this in.  Didn't feel like frying bacon when I was throwing it together this morn)
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 chopped celery
1 1/4 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1 can diced tomatoes (I put mine in the Magic Bullet so they weren't so chunky)
2 cups hot cooked rice

Cook the bacon, adding peppers, onions and celery and sauteing for a few minutes.  Place in slow cooker when soft.  Add chicken, seasoning and tomatoes.  (I just dumped everything into the crock-pot).  Cook that baby on low all day!  Then serve over rice.  I'm going to have cornbread w/ this (hooray for Jiffy!!).  A yummy meal on its way!!

Dinner Mar 7, 2011

Hello folks!  I hope your Monday went well.  Monday's are never fun, but if you're a Bachelor fan, they can be easier :)

I had book club tonight and you know what that means--sloppy joes!!  But this time my husband vetoed sloppy joes so that nixed my dinner plans :(  Instead, I used my go-to meal--breakfast.  My fav meal of the day is breakfast, so I LOVE to make it for dinner!  You can never go wrong w/ some pancakes and eggs :)  But tonight we had biscuits (frozen; never was good at making my own) and gravy, bacon and eggs.  Delish!  If you find yourself searching for a dinner idea, just explore breakfast--you'll love it!

Saturday, March 5, 2011

Dinner Mar 6, 2011

Tonight's dinner is a classic--Chicken Pot Pie.  Sigh.....just saying it makes me smile, relax and think of lazy Sunday's back home.  I love pot pie; it's the dish that never gets old and, no matter how you prepare it, it's always delicious.  Whether you make your own crust or buy one or top it with biscuits---it's still a pot pie.  My pot pie recipe is one that I've adapted from years of trial and error.  I've come up with my go-to recipe that knows how to make my Sunday feel like home :)  I hope you enjoy as well.

Chicken Pot Pie

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
2 T Kraft Zesty Italian dressing (I like to use that brand; it's got a tangy flavor that goes well w/ the chicken)
2 cans cream of chicken soup
1/2-1 cup milk
2 cups frozen mixed veggies
1 store-bought pie crust (I've tried making my own, but when they're so easy to buy and they taste so good, I have a hard time turning that down)
1 egg w/ a splash of milk

Preheat oven to 375deg.  Heat the dressing in a skillet on med-high heat and add chicken.  Cook, stirring, until chicken is no longer pink.  Turn head down to med-low and add veggies.  Allow to cook about 5min, until veggies are thawed.  In another bowl, mix soup and milk, making a thick, creamy gravy.  Pour gravy over chicken and veggies and stir to mix.  Spray a 9"x13" (or whatever size you grab) pan and pour chicken mixture in.  Top w/ pie crust.  Mix egg and milk in a small bowl and brush lightly over top of the crust.  Bake, uncovered, 30-45min, our until crust is brown and gravy is bubbling on the sides.  If you need the crust to get browner, turn the oven up to 425deg and cook for a few minutes, checking often.  Allow to cool for about 10min, and then serve.  The good thing about this dish--it doesn't need any sides; you've got your meat, veggies and gravy.  'nuf said.  Happy Sunday's to you all!!!

Dinner on the Weekend

Hello my peoples :)  I hope this Saturday evening finds you well.  We've had a lazy, wonderful weekend thus far.  My husband took off work yesterday so we loafed around town :)  Love those days....Him being home all day inspired a dinner-by-daddy.  I didn't write about this yesterday because I wasn't too 'into' it; dinner on Friday brought us back to our roots: fried deer meat.  Yep--you read it right.  Now, it's not that I'm totally against deer meat, but it takes forever to prepare, then it makes a mess in the kitchen and, worst of all--it's fried meat!  Now don't get me wrong, we occasionally break out the deep fryer and throw in some chicken strips, but not very often.  But I looooove those chicken strips; and I don't really like deer meat.  The game-y taste throws me off.  I know, I know, I'm not a loyalist to my roots--I'm sorry!! 

So, having said that, we had deer meat for dinner last night and tonight was a movie night.  We bought a take & bake pizza from the grocery store and watched Monster's Inc.  I love that movie :)  It was a wonderful night day of not cooking and I thoroughly enjoyed it.  I hope your Saturday night was just as enjoyable and I will see you back here tomorrow!

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Dinner Mar 3, 2011

Hello my loyal chefs!  How is everyone today?  We are doing pretty good around here.  I'm sorry I'm late getting dinner out tonight; it was a crazy afternoon! 

Tonight's dinner is a classic: Spaghetti--but w/ a twist!  We are going to add some Italian sausage to the sauce so it has a different flavor to it.  My kids love spaghetti, and so do we!  Happy noodles :)

Sausage Spaghetti

1 lb Italian sausage (I use Johnsenville and squeeze it out of the casings)
1 med onion, chopped
2 T minced garlic
1 can crushed tomatoes
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can tomato sauce
2 T Italian seasoning
Salt and Pepper
1 lb angel hair pasta (or whatever you prefer)
Grated Parm cheese

Place the ground sausage--out of the casing--into a skillet, along w/ the onion and garlic.  Cook until sausage is no longer pink.  Add crushed and diced tomatoes and tomato sauce.  Add seasonings and salt and pepper.  Cook on low, stirring occasionally, about 20 min, or as long as you have. 

Cook noodles according to directions on package.  Serve sauce over noodles and top w/ grated cheese.  We served this w/ a loaf of french bread--wonderful!!! 

Tomato Tips....
I love to make my own spaghetti sauce, and it's so simple you can do it in just a few steps.  Don't get me wrong--I use pre-made sauce a lot, but sometimes it's nice to make a good, simple spaghetti sauce.  I always start w/ crushed tomatoes as the base of the sauce.  Then, I'll use whatever tomatoes I have in the pantry.  Today, I used the diced tomatoes and some sauce.  But I've used stewed before, if I have them in the pantry.  Stewed tomatoes are more dense and have a stronger tomato taste than diced, so I usually run them through my Magic Bullet before I put them in the sauce.  Just use what you've got and experiment. 

Hope your spaghetti was noodle-rific!!!  Ha--I crack myself up :)

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Some Teasers.....

Hey guys!  I hope dinner went well for everyone.  Some tips I'd like to point out---cook the chicken on 375deg for about 40min.  It takes a little longer than I remembered.  I put too much milk in mine and the gravy was a little runny, but it thickened up as it set. 

I'm headed to the store tomorrow to do my bi-weekly shopping trip.  Wanna know what's for dinner over the next couple of weeks.......spicy chicken stir-fry, slow-cooker Cajun chicken and some penne w/ chicken and smoked cheese.  Yum!!!!  I hope you have a wonderful day tomorrow!  Ciao :)

Dinner Mar 2, 2011

Hello all!  Happy Wednesday!!  I hope the week is going well for everyone.  We are enjoying some sunshine here and loving it :)

Today's meal is an absolute favorite.  I first got to taste Swiss Chicken after I had my daughter.  It is customary (and, as I've come to find out, very much-appreciated) in this part of the country to bring new moms meals a few times a week for a few weeks after they have a baby!  Not sure if anyone else does that, but I LOVE it!!!  So, a mom brought me Swiss Chicken and I fell in love.  It's soooooooo unbelievably easy, it's almost not even right.  But it's soooooooo yummy, you know it's right ;)  It's creamy and smooth and a little tart from the cheese and altogether amazing!  So, without further ado, I bring you Swiss Chicken.....

Swiss Chicken

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (if the breasts are thick, I like to fillet them so they cook faster)
6-8 slices Swiss cheese
2 cans cream of chicken
1/2 - 1 cup milk

Heat oven to 350deg.  Place chicken in baking dish and top w/ slices of cheese, so that chicken is covered.  In another bowl mix cream of chicken and milk (you should be able to pour it smoothly, but not have it runny).  Pour cream of chicken over cheese and chicken.  Bake for 25-35min, or until chicken is done.  That's it!!  So easy, huh???  I'm serving this w/ some instant mashed potatoes (check out my tips on instant pots below...) so I can pour the gravy all over them--yum :), and some green beans.  This one's a winner, kids.  I guarantee it.  Happy dinners!!!

Pointers on Instant Mashed Potatoes.....

I love to make instants potatoes--they are so easy!  And I've learned to make them a little more delish: after you make the desired amount, add about 1/2 cup sour cream and 1/2 block cream cheese.  Let them sit, covered, until they mix together smoothly.  Now you've got yourself a home cooked meal :)

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Dinner Mar 1, 2011

Yikes!!!  I just typed MARCH!!  Wow--I cannot believe it's here.  That much closer to the warmer weather :))))  I'd like to give a shout-out to my newest follower----Hope you're ready for some de-LIGHT-ful dishes :)

We've still got our fam in town and we're going out tonight, but I wanted to leave you with a meal.  Tonight I bring you a tried-and-true: Sloppy Joes.  Now, let me tell you, I have not always been a fan of sloppy joes.  To say the least, I don't like them.  I've tried countless recipes and am never satisfied.  I'm just not that into them ;)  But my fam (mainly my hubby) loooooooves them, so I try to accommodate.  I make them on nights when I'm not going to be home for dinner--he he :)  It's actually gotten to where he said, 'It seems like we have sloppy joes every time you have book club'.  Well--yeah!  So, back to the story---I found this recipe from http://www.bettycrocker.com/ and fell in love with it.  I mean, I'll be standing at the stove stirring this, getting ready to leave the house and I'll find myself eating sloppy joes by the spoonful!  I've since started making them on nights I'm home :)

I've adjusted this recipe a bit from the original, and it is yumm-ers!  I hope you all enjoy!!!

Sloppy Joes

1 lb ground beef
1 T garlic, minced (again, from the jar)
1/2 onion, chopped
1 can tomato sauce
3 T ketchup
2 T sugar
3 T Worcestershire sauce
2 T white vinegar
1-2 T hot sauce
salt and pepper
4-6 hamburger buns

Brown beef, garlic and onions; drain.  Add sauce, ketchup, sugar, W sauce, vinegar, hot sauce and salt and pepper.  Stir and cook for about 5min, allowing flavors to come together.  Adjust vinegar and hot sauce to taste.  Serve on buns and enjoy!!

I usually serve this with chips and some cheese slices.  It's a perfect feel-like-you're-a-kid meal :)  Happy eating all!!!

Chicken Sandwich Review...

The verdict is in....we loved 'em!!!  So here's how things went down.....

I planned this recipe over a week ago, then got a call saying my wonderful fam from CO was coming into town for a few days.  Hooray!!  But now I needed more chicken.  I happened to find some in my freezer (yes, I really did stumble across it; I don't normally keep chicken thighs in my freezer for 'that one-time occasion').  So I thrown everything in the crock pot yesterday morn.  When I went to check it later that afternoon I realized half of my chicken had bones in it!!!  So a little while later after I pick out the bones I get all of the chicken back into the pot and let it sit all afternoon.  Then we sat down and had it w/ the blue cheese and I added some ranch--it was awesome!!  Everyone loved it!  Needless to say--it'll be on the repeat list!  I hope your sandwiches went as well as ours. 

I wish you the best and we'll talk again tomorrow :)

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Dinner Feb 28, 2011

Hello kiddos!  I want to give you my dinner recipe for tomorrow while I'm sitting here at my computer tonight.  It's a slow-cooker recipe that sounds delish--Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches.  Yum!  I loooooove my slow-cooker; it's the best. thing. ever. for a busy family.  Even if you're not busy, there's not much better in this world than coming home at 5pm and smelling dinner in the crock pot.  Sigh......now that's comfort food :)  I got this recipe from http://www.bettycrocker.com/ and I've never made this one before so I'll let you know what we think. 

Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

3.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs
1 3/4 cup Buffalo wing sauce (I'm going to use Frank's)
1 cucumber
12 sandwiches buns
3/4 cup crumbled blue cheese

Place chicken and sauce in slow cooker and cook on low 7-8 hrs.  Remove chicken from cooker and shred w/ two forks on a cutting board.  Strain out pieces and skim fat from cooker, then replace chicken.  Cook for 15-20min, allowing chicken to soak up sauce.  Serve sandwiches with sliced cucumber and blue cheese on the buns.  I'm serving this one w/ some good, crispy fries.  Yum :) 

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Dinner Feb 26, 2011

Hello everyone!  I hope this Saturday is treating you well.  We are headed out to dinner tonight with some friends--and I invite you to do the same!  See what different cuisine's the world has to offer!  Our choice, you guessed it--Mexican!!  Can't beat chips, salsa and a good margarita :)  I hope your Saturday evening goes well and I will see you back tomorrow! 

Friday, February 25, 2011

Dinner Feb 25. 2011

Hello my fabulous chefs!  I am sure we are all happy to see Friday.  We got some snow--yuck!  I was holding my breath on Phil and hoping for an early spring.  Oh well, soon enough :) 

I have a wonderful dinner for you to warm up on this chilly, snowy, lazy, perfect-night-for-a-movie Friday night--veggie soup and delish biscuits!  Now I must tell you all that this is my recipe and I've never done the same thing twice.  It's one of those ;)  I dig through my crisper and pull out whatever veggies I have in there.  This is often a dish I'll make right before I make my bi-weekly trip to the grocery store to clean out my fridge.  Here's my version, and I invite you to experiment with yours :)  Happy Friday night to all!!

Veggie Soup *note: this recipe makes a small pot of soup; enough for dinner for four, then maybe another two lunches worth.

1 lb ground beef (Optional; I don't always include the beef, but it makes it a little heartier)
2-4 T Olive Oil
2 T minced garlic (I've gotten to where I buy the jar of pre-minced garlic from the produce section.  It's so much easier than chopping garlic and the jar will stay in your fridge for--well, forever!!  For this I use a couple of spoonfuls)
3-4 small potatoes, diced w/ peels left on
1 small onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 cup baby carrots (optional to chop)
1 T dried Parsley (I hardly ever use fresh herbs.  They don't keep long and I usually end up throwing them out b/c they are going bad)
1 T Oregano
1/2 T Thyme
1 cup frozen corn
2 cans tomato sauce
1 cup chicken broth *see note below
Salt and Pepper
2 cups noodles (whatever kind you prefer)

Cook noodles according to directions on package. 

Brown beef, drain and set aside. 

While beef is browning, in another pot heat oil on med heat.  Add garlic, potatoes, onions, celery and carrots.  Saute for about 5 min, then add herbs.  While the veggies are sauteing, stir occasionally; this will infuse the flavor of the herbs into the veggies.  Saute for about 6-8 minutes more, or until the veggies are soft. 

Add the corn, tomato sauce and broth (*Only add enough of the broth to make it the consistency you desire).  Salt and pepper to taste.  Allow to simmer on low heat for 20 minutes or all day! 

To serve, place noodles in a bowl and ladle soup over them.  Serve w/ biscuits below. 

Biscuits

2 cups Bisquick
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 - 1 cup milk

Heat oven to 375deg.  Mix Bisquick and sour cream.  Add enough milk to form a sticky, thick dough.  Drop dough by the spoonful onto baking sheet.  Bake 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.  Enjoy with the soup!

I hope everyone enjoys this recipe and I wish you a wonderful weekend ahead

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Dinner Feb 24, 2011

Good afternoon folks!  I hope your Thursday is treating you well.  For dinner tonight--Mexican!!!  I'm telling you-we LOVE Mexican!  We are having Chicken Enchiladas tonight.  This recipe is a conglomeration of three different recipes I've come across the years: one is from one of my roommates in college, one is from a neighbor of mine and then I've added a few on my own touches.  I hope you enjoy!

Chicken Enchiladas with Spanish Corn and Cornbread

Chicken Enchiladas

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
6 cups chicken broth
1 can enchilada sauce
1 package taco seasoning
1 can cream of chicken
1 can diced tomatoes and green chili's
2 cups of shredded cheddar, divided
6-8 tortillas

Preheat oven to 350deg.  Boil chicken in broth (make sure there is enough liquid to cover the chicken) about 20 min, or until no longer pink. 

Meanwhile, mix enchilada sauce, taco seasoning, cream of chicken and tomatoes/green chili's in skillet on med-high heat.  Add a little of the cooking water from the chicken if it's too thick.  Stir until taco seasoning dissolves. 

Shred chicken with two forks and place into the pan w/ the sauce.  Cook for about 10 min, then add 1 cup of the cheese and cook another 10min. 

Fill tortillas with chicken mixture and place in 9"x13" pan.  Top with any remaining chicken mixture and the remaining cheese.  Bake, uncovered, for 25-30min. 

Spanish Corn

2 cups frozen corn
4 T butter
1 can diced tomatoes and green chili's

Place butter and corn in saucepan on high heat.  Cook on high for about 10min--this is called 'scalding' the corn.  It adds a new texture and flavor to frozen corn.  Stir often, or the corn will stick.  Add tomatoes and green chili's and cook another 3-5min or until warm.

Cornbread

Here's where I take a shortcut--buy a box of Jiffy :)  It's tasty and easy!

I hope you enjoy your Mexican meal--I know we will!!!

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

A Few Words....

Hello all.  I hope your dinner was a success!!  I wanted to share a few things w/ you I remembered/learned as I was making our meal tonight.  First--cook the potatoes at about 450deg; they'll get crispier.  Stir them every 15 min so they all have a chance to get crispy.  Second--I had some Mango Jalapeno compote in the fridge (I got it at a hometown store over Christmas) so I mixed that w/ my mayo.  I liked it, but the kids used ranch :)  Oh well, can't win 'em all!  Once again, this dinner was a hit!  We served it w/ biscuits and lots of ketchup for our pots!  Stay tuned tomorrow.....chicken enchiladas!!  Yum!!!!

Dinner Feb 23, 2011

Hello everyone!  I hope your week is going good--it's half over!  I've got a wonderful recipe for you tonight.  I've made this one before and the kiddos loved it :)  Again, this one is from http://www.kraftfoods.com/ --love 'em!!  I hope you enjoy!

Coconut Chicken Dippers w/ Roasted Potatoes

Chicken Dippers
1 pack Shake-N-Bake Extra Crispy Coating Mix
1 cup coconut
1/4 tsp each - curry powder and cayenne
1 egg
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1in strips
1/4 cup mayo
1 T fruit spread (it calls for mango here, but I use orange, or whatever's in the fridge)

Preheat oven to 400deg.  Mix coating, coconut and seasonings in shallow dish.  Beat egg in another shallow; add a splash of milk, if needed.  Dredge the chicken strips in egg first and coating next.  Place on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake about 15min, or until chicken is done. 

Mix the mayo and spread.  Serve chicken w/ sauce. 

Roasted Potatoes
1 lb potatoes
1 pkg onion soup mix
2-4T olive oil

Cut about 1 lb potatoes into 1in cubes.  Place in a large bowl and mix with soup mix and oil.  Stir until potatoes are coated.  Place in a foil-lined baking dish and bake at 400deg 30-40min, or until potatoes are tender.

Enjoy :)

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Dinner Feb 22, 2011

Hello readers!  Tonight's dinner will be a pleaser for all--Pizza Bread!  Yum!  This is a super-simple recipe that can probably be made with stuff you've got around the house.  Here it is:

Pizza Bread

1 loaf of French bread (I use the frozen baguette from Schwan's)
1 can pizza sauce
Shredded mozzarella
Additional toppings, if desired

Cut French bread in half and bake according to directions.  Spread w/ pizza sauce and top w/ cheese (here's where you'd add more toppings if you want).  Bake for another 6-8 minutes on 425deg, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.  I might serve this dish w/ some frozen peas, just to add another element to the meal.  Enjoy!!

Monday, February 21, 2011

Dinner Feb 21, 2011

My husband is out of town--blah!  He doesn't travel often but when he does I'm tempted to throw some chicken nuggets in the oven and then have my dinner of snacks in the pantry after the kids to go to bed :)  No---not a good idea.  We LOVE Mexican.  We probably have a Mexican-themed meal 2 or 3 times a week, and we usually have tacos once a week.  I grew up in Colorado and, as they say it, the spicier the better!  My daughter will drag anything I give her through salsa (including grapes), while my son is a little more reserved.  Here's what's on our menu tonight:

Easy Baked Taco Pie (I got this recipe from http://www.kraftfoods.com/, one of my fav sights)

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 T Chili powder
1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 pkg frozen corn
6 tortillas (it says whole wheat, but I don't like those)
Shredded cheese and sour cream

Heat oven to 375deg

Brown meat and onions and chili powder on med-high heat.  Drain.  Add tomatoes and corn, cook 5 min, allowing corn to thaw and tomatoes to warm.  Stirring occasionally.

Spoon 1 cup of meat mixture into 2qt round casserole (here's where I use whatever pan I drag out of the cabinet first).  Cover w/ 3 tortillas and some cheese.  Cover w/ remaining tortillas and meat.  Cover w/ foil.

Bake for 25-30 min, or until heated.  Top w/ cheese and bake, uncovered, 5 min or until cheese is melted.  Serve topped w/ sour cream.

Enjoy!

I like this recipe b/c it is easy and I can make it, stick it into the oven and go hang w/ the kids.  I'm going to serve Spanish rice w/ this meal.  If my husband was here, I'd prob have some cornbread also, but that's a lot of food for three people!  I'll prob make it around 5, then feed the kids their veggies (here's to my tips!!) and let it cook.  When it comes out at 5:30, I'll let it cool while I make the rice, then we'll eat!  Delish :)

Tip

Here's a little tip for you--my husband usually gets home around 5:30.  This means we usually eat around 6.  With little ones, this often makes for some cranky people going from a snack at 3 to dinner at 6.  I don't like to just shove junk into them so here's what I started doing--at 5:00 (give or take a bit) we have veggies.  I know what your thinking: 'veggies, really??  That's her tip?'  But listen-- I buy bags of frozen veggies (mine from Schwans, b/c they are convenient and cheap) and warm up a bowl of them (about 1 cup).  Then I have my kiddos bring their fav chair (right now it's a Mickey and a Buzz chair) into the living room.  I sit and feed them the veggies.  It's kind of like a fun-for-them time, b/c they are eating in the living room and I'm 100% devoted to them.  It took awhile for them to get into it, but once they did, I've been able to pull them inside just by telling them it's time for veggies!!  Their fav is the mixed veggies w/ bow-tie pasta.  My son eats the corn, peas and noodles, while my daughter eats anything I put in front of her.  This makes everyone a winner; they get a serving of veggies, they aren't starving by dinner b/c they actually had a good-for-them snack filled with fiber and if they don't eat as much at dinner I don't mind, b/c they had a huge serving of veggies earlier!  I've also been known to make our snack watermelon or strawberries or some kind of fruit in the summer.  If I can't get the time to sit and feed them veggies, I'll still give them a snack, but it'll be something they can eat like a cheese stick or a yogurt stick. 

Here's to making your Witching Hour go a little more smoothly tonight!!

Welcome!!

Hello folks!  Welcome to my blog!  I want to help moms (and dads and grandmas and whoever else might be cooking for little ones tonight) cook wholesome, delicious meals that will help make your day easier and feed your family a healthy meal.  Don't worry--this isn't a blog that will be dishing out Swiss chard and talapia fillets :)  I make good-for-you meals that are easy to prepare and are family-friendly. 

I like to plan my meals for two weeks at a time.  I know, this sounds impossible to some of you, but with a little practice and a little help, it won't be so bad!  Planning allows me to do one big shopping trip to get all of my ingredients and it makes it so I don't have to lean over the counter staring at my cookbook around 4:30 every evening wondering what I can defrost.  Don't get me wrong--there are nights I do that, but I try to have several meals planned and have the fixin's on hand to make it a little easier. 

I get a lot of my meals from cookbooks, websites and my brain.  I love to cook and I've got lots of yummy recipes stored upstairs when I need them :)  This blog will help you to get some dinner ideas at a glance and make your evenings run more smoothly. 

Happy Cooking!!!