tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4282006425314403232024-03-14T00:17:28.413-06:00Shan Madeexperiments with cooking | sewing | parties | designShannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.comBlogger203125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-26014630500269021642015-05-06T21:03:00.001-06:002015-05-06T21:29:12.630-06:00Chocolate Avocado Shake<p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HTVE9SRD1BA/VUrV2WvTizI/AAAAAAAASZk/tB7dOxlLwL0/s1600-h/Avocado%252520Chocolate%252520Shake%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Avocado Chocolate Shake" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Avocado Chocolate Shake" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0ygXUEIER_w/VUrV3anAAjI/AAAAAAAASZs/Le5tJ2Vwi_U/Avocado%252520Chocolate%252520Shake_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> </p> <p>I am sharing this recipe because you need it in your life. It has no dairy, no sugar, and 100% pure creaminess. On those days when your kids are screaming and your house is a mess and you need a cold refreshing treat (that happens to other people too, right?) that isn’t filled with carbs or chemicals or junk, this is what you need. I’m convinced it gets me through half my week. </p> <p>Ingredients, Chocolate Avocado Shake:</p> <ul> <li>1 c. coconut milk</li> <li>1 c. ice</li> <li>1/2 avocado</li> <li>4 heaping tbsp. cocoa powder</li> <li>5 tbsp. honey</li></ul> <p>Puree and add any extra ice as needed. I like mine really cold. I promise it doesn’t taste like avocado. Just like thick chocolate pudding in milkshake form. Go, try it!<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pW62KdNvIyk/VUrV31iHs0I/AAAAAAAASZ0/H0Fao3KPRtI/s1600-h/2015-05-04%25252019.27.51%25255B30%25255D.png"><img title="Avocado Chocolate Shake" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Avocado Chocolate Shake" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5fqA7WnIhN8/VUrV4vk2fpI/AAAAAAAASZ8/-EpcN8sLpiM/2015-05-04%25252019.27.51_thumb%25255B32%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="627"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQWYFClcx7enMO4eZH3CV3AXdtaPbJMn8qmIbuxg_3GAPudUGbYvUSf6cm9ZnjA74oSd5jmk4uYafEjnFEew3CPDj30RCDUUhkUp76MDRGoQSFkk4-DpcBb95q6HeW7joBmWjaUNdCplOw/s1600-h/2015-05-04%25252019.26.59%25255B44%25255D.png"><img title="Avocado Chocolate Shake" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Avocado Chocolate Shake" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tFzytN4Q5RU/VUrV572n2vI/AAAAAAAASa0/6dzu9NnywJQ/2015-05-04%25252019.26.59_thumb%25255B45%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="593"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-E71ZiHJUgYddwMuMwSSapHQvRU8xUz13qzTiEyRV_L_JfTaimMEw3w8TmSF7nA6Pkou-AYnK3aORAanG91ahp0FaBhktAhgelJG2ZHYvaCxnYWO79LSilIn5Y4Jt1CcRDp2t5JtaQ0h/s1600-h/2015-05-04%25252019.27.24%25255B9%25255D.png"><img title="Avocado Chocolate Shake" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Avocado Chocolate Shake" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rq_7v1YCPFI/VUrV7Q4syMI/AAAAAAAASac/Bwsy1QF2A6k/2015-05-04%25252019.27.24_thumb%25255B10%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="616"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-72692168643535125862015-04-28T22:03:00.001-06:002015-04-28T22:03:27.047-06:00Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon, Cranberries, Kale, & Parmesan with Pear Vinagrette<p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9FroZhTGN3o/VUBX95DDVgI/AAAAAAAASYE/e6H3g0MYNu8/s1600-h/BrusselsSprout%252520Salad%25255B16%25255D.jpg"><img title="brussels sprout salad with bacon, cranberries, pecans, + fresh parm w/pear vinaigrette" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="brussels sprout salad with bacon, cranberries, pecans, + fresh parm w/pear vinaigrette" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-91411H8MYOA/VUBX_eorg9I/AAAAAAAASYM/Lj11oN1zt9E/BrusselsSprout%252520Salad_thumb%25255B14%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a></p> <p>You will hug me for this recipe only because it is so easy and also delicious. I’m hoping you have a Trader Joe’s nearby. First off, you’ll need a bag of pre chopped kale/Brussels sprout mix which I’ve seen at Costco and Trader Joe’s. These are wonderful because everything is pre-washed and chopped. I’m a believer that I’ll eat more salads if this step is taken care of for me.</p> <p>Add to that crisp bacon, fresh parmesan cheese, cranberries, pecans, and a pear vinaigrette? Pretty amazing.</p> <p>Ingredients:</p> <ul> <li>1 bag “Cruciferous Crunch” as it’s called at Trader Joe’s</li> <li>1 12-16 oz. package of bacon, cooked until crispy and cooled</li> <li>1 c. dried cranberries</li> <li>1 c. fresh grated parmesan cheese</li> <li>1 c. chopped pecans</li> <li>To taste, Pear Champagne Vinaigrette from Trader Joe’s</li></ul> <p>Mix ingredients and dress. I like to dress about 15 minutes before I eat this because the greens are a little tough and pre-dressing makes it perfect by meal time.</p> <p>Enjoy!</p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tH2OsBrsaP4/VUBYAKDbyeI/AAAAAAAASYU/yp4DRYiMJxc/s1600-h/2015-04-28%25252020.39.17%25255B19%25255D.png"><img title="brussels sprout salad with bacon, cranberries, pecans, + fresh parm w/pear vinaigrette" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="brussels sprout salad with bacon, cranberries, pecans, + fresh parm w/pear vinaigrette" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_Y-kYn7BTqc/VUBYBNhkW_I/AAAAAAAASYc/mX5vBgSkzyo/2015-04-28%25252020.39.17_thumb%25255B20%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="545"></a> <a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gbw2Gv-sq5o/VUBYCMHDmOI/AAAAAAAASYk/9geX5yONZEs/s1600-h/2015-04-28%25252020.38.52%25255B9%25255D.png"><img title="brussels sprout salad with bacon, cranberries, pecans, + fresh parm w/pear vinaigrette" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="brussels sprout salad with bacon, cranberries, pecans, + fresh parm w/pear vinaigrette" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Sgr8ZU2RK0o/VUBYDWYlOAI/AAAAAAAASYs/xRhdka3fs8k/2015-04-28%25252020.38.52_thumb%25255B10%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="549"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-55585798357553186612015-04-19T01:10:00.001-06:002015-04-19T01:19:16.877-06:00Herb & Garlic Zucchini “Pasta”<p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0wGDC8uWLV0/VTNUib5OYpI/AAAAAAAASXI/WcaHfokFP6s/s1600-h/ZucchiniPasta%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="herb & garlic zucchini pasta" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="herb & garlic zucchini pasta" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lrTcrRlteec/VTNUk1zNgBI/AAAAAAAASXQ/LJfmBB2I7UQ/ZucchiniPasta_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> Every recipe from <a href="http://pinchofyum.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Pinch of Yum</strong></a> is amazing. I can’t get over how she combines such fresh flavors to create healthy meals that are really filling and satisfying. <a href="http://pinchofyum.com/garlic-spaghetti-squash-with-herbs" target="_blank"><strong>This</strong></a> garlic and herb squash “pasta” dish with toasted pine nuts is so delicious. And filling! We loved it. She originally made this recipe with spaghetti squash but all I had was zucchini on hand so I used a veggie spiralizer to turn it into pasta. I also subbed sharp white cheddar cheese for gruyere. It was a perfect. My changes are noted in the directions.</p> <p>Another great thing about this recipe is it takes only about 15 minutes total! Enjoy.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OY3GTl92GGc/VTNUnOWTJpI/AAAAAAAASWI/mHgMk1CwjqA/s1600-h/image_310.png"><img title="Fresh Spiralized Zucchini Pasta" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Fresh Spiralized Zucchini Pasta" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NRTIaVuH3Gs/VTNUo1rhlTI/AAAAAAAASWQ/MAMK5P7dmPA/image_3_thumb15.png?imgmax=800" width="608" height="498"></a></p> <p>INGREDIENTS <ul> <li>3 medium zucchinis, spiralized into “pasta” <li>olive oil <li>kosher salt <li>2 cloves garlic, minced <li>2 teaspoons white wine vinegar <li>¼ cup minced fresh parsley <li>2 tablespoons minced fresh basil (sage is also yummy) <li>¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese or gruyere <li>½ cup pine nuts, toasted <li>black pepper</li></ul> <p>INSTRUCTIONS <ol> <li>In a large skillet, heat 2½ tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic & zucchini and cook for about 5 minutes, until zucchini is softened. <li>Once zucchini is slightly softened, stir in vinegar, herbs, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Cook for about 2 minutes to heat through. Remove from heat and stir in Gruyère cheese, then top with pine nuts. Taste and add salt or pepper if desired. Top with more fresh parsley.</li></ol> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9z32MBBGtZU/VTNUqML3CLI/AAAAAAAASWY/-NcalMjG2Zo/s1600-h/image_112.png"><img title="herb & garlic zucchini pasta" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="herb & garlic zucchini pasta" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqaR_fgqGOJOXeKuSo4yQmgA6a7fHm4S3hPgmGwr3zWXXkR3lKVBrVCuvqUOZ5CTObzYj2FdfMGW6go2bAVzdflgnbKRnpA_RED0klaKEwnBx5rXGH5XOOKvCBK67iYhcUb5L2-ae5QiEc/?imgmax=800" width="498" height="607"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ghvoGORHRHo/VTNUtWBruII/AAAAAAAASWo/neqSeLFPypk/s1600-h/image8.png"><img title="herb & garlic zucchini pasta" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="herb & garlic zucchini pasta" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UWPUYw-2Y44/VTNUvF9Wg4I/AAAAAAAASWw/zhXbC087uOY/image_thumb10.png?imgmax=800" width="577" height="524"></a> <a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Sw_YnGTeYDA/VTNUwib9vtI/AAAAAAAASW4/LIw8Xt0CdSk/s1600-h/image_57.png"><img title="herb & garlic zucchini pasta" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="herb & garlic zucchini pasta" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EeQExUw52Mo/VTNUxltZhYI/AAAAAAAASXA/p7g6gskoQlM/image_5_thumb9.png?imgmax=800" width="513" height="590"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-2899288758573268092015-04-14T16:46:00.001-06:002015-04-14T16:46:41.907-06:00Homemade Caramel Sauce<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-T8RDXkLPrYM/VS2YvFgO7CI/AAAAAAAASUY/5kIaSbPJhmc/s1600-h/Caramel%252520Sauce%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="homemade caramel sauce" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="homemade caramel sauce" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WupHHOkEyNA/VS2Yvi9h0dI/AAAAAAAASUg/JRbVQEMp_0w/Caramel%252520Sauce_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> </p> <p>It is so typical of me to post a recipe with all veggies and follow it up with a caramel sauce. I think I have a healthy food with whiplash to sweet foods problem!</p> <p>Anyways, back to the caramel. If I were you, I’d look in your fridge for these simple ingredients and make this caramel sauce. Now. I have to admit I ate a cup of it. With nothing on it. All I did was <a href="https://www.google.com" target="_blank">google</a> “<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=how+to+make+caramel&oq=how+to+make+caramel&aqs=chrome..69i57j0l5.2519j0j7&sourceid=chrome&es_sm=122&ie=UTF-8" target="_blank"><strong>how to make caramel sauce</strong></a>” and this amazing recipe from <a href="http://sallysbakingaddiction.com/homemade-salted-caramel-recipe/" target="_blank"><strong>Sally’s Baking Addiction</strong></a> came up. Hers calls for salt which I omitted because I like a little salt on top of my caramel but not in it.<img title="homemade caramel sauce" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="homemade caramel sauce" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Q4SNuAF2otI/VS2YwJ0ooAI/AAAAAAAASUo/RUNnu3x-W0c/2015-04-14%25252014.25.00_thumb%25255B4%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="518" height="584"> </p> <p>Ingredients, Homemade Caramel Sauce:</p> <ul> <li>1 cup (200g) granulated sugar <li>6 Tablespoons (90g) salted butter, cut up into 6 pieces* <li>1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream</li></ul> <p>Directions:</p> <ol> <li>Heat granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a high heat resistant rubber spatula or wooden spoon. <li>Sugar will form clumps and eventually melt into a thick brown, amber-colored liquid as you continue to stir. Be careful not to burn. <li>Once sugar is completely melted, immediately add the butter. Be careful in this step because the caramel will bubble rapidly when the butter is added. <li>Stir the butter into the caramel until it is completely melted, about 2-3 minutes. <li>Very slowly, drizzle in 1/2 cup of heavy cream while stirring. Since the heavy cream is colder than the caramel, the mixture will rapidly bubble and/or splatter when added. <li>Allow the mixture to boil for 1 minute. It will rise in the pan as it boils. <li>Remove from heat. Allow to cool down before using. <li>Cover the caramel tightly and store for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Warm the caramel up for a few seconds before using in a recipe.</li></ol> <p><img title="homemade caramel sauce" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="homemade caramel sauce" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mzbvqDgP6Bc/VS2YwwSOD-I/AAAAAAAASUw/2kiqm3qOuog/2015-04-14%25252014.23.28_thumb%25255B5%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="496" height="611"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-becdW4xUfa4/VS2YxoFRLWI/AAAAAAAASU0/LlancM6LY3w/s1600-h/2015-04-14%25252014.25.22%25255B3%25255D.png"><img title="2015-04-14 14.25.22" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="2015-04-14 14.25.22" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sozgFNjf-mQ/VS2YyCHHa4I/AAAAAAAASVA/ARq68nXmSsU/2015-04-14%25252014.25.22_thumb%25255B10%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="519" height="583"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pY91rp-f5eo/VS2Yy_sigQI/AAAAAAAASVI/nzJ_t98Fiz8/s1600-h/2015-04-14%25252014.26.13%25255B3%25255D.png"><img title="homemade caramel sauce" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="homemade caramel sauce" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xIvrtga0lzY/VS2YzbIIHZI/AAAAAAAASVQ/GhZssXOVib8/2015-04-14%25252014.26.13_thumb%25255B4%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="525" height="576"></a></p> <p><img title="homemade caramel sauce" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="homemade caramel sauce" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IbEWSq5oSEQ/VS2Yz_JNZfI/AAAAAAAASVY/3NAIIV0L5i0/2015-04-14%25252014.25.47_thumb%25255B4%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="525" height="576"></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-91730837629652020532015-04-13T21:12:00.001-06:002015-04-13T21:29:01.953-06:00Sweet Potato, Kale, & Corn Chowder<p><img title="sweet potato, corn, + kale chowder" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="sweet potato, corn, + kale chowder" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kuqiJPtSmhM/VSyFfLsooLI/AAAAAAAASSA/0uBnqMbxWSE/SweetPotatoChowder2_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="730"></p> <p>Lately I’ve been fascinated with all the people who have changed their lives and chronic health problems through diet changes. I’ve even heard European doctors talk about how plant diets can cure cancer. I’m no doctor but I sure feel better when I’m eating a meal made of pure veggies rather than bag of Cadbury Mini Eggs. Lately I’ve been trying to make more all veggie meals. This one caught my eye immediately. A healthy chowder made of all veggies + veggie broth, with a little salt, pepper, and cinnamon. In my opinion the cinnamon makes this meal! It really adds a deep flavor to the sweet potatoes. I love sweet potatoes. And leeks are amazing. They have this really subtle onion flavor that isn’t overwhelming. I couldn’t believe how full my husband and I were after eating this soup! It is so hearty and so delicious. Perfect for a rainy day here in Portland. <p><strong>Sweet Potato, Kale and Corn Chowder from <a href="http://ahouseinthehills.com/2013/12/16/sweet-potato-kale-corn-chowder/" target="_blank"><em>A House in the Hills</em></a>:</strong> <p>INGREDIENTS: <ul> <li>2 medium sweet potatoes, cut into 1/2″ cubes</li> <li>2 shallots, diced</li> <li>1 medium leek, cleaned and sliced (round)</li> <li>1 bunch of curly kale, chopped</li> <li>3 cups of frozen or fresh corn</li> <li>3 cloves of garlic</li> <li>3 cups of low sodium vegetable broth</li> <li>3 cups of water (more to preference)</li> <li>1/4 teaspoon sea salt (more to taste)</li> <li>1/4 teaspoon black pepper</li> <li>1/2 teaspoon cinnamon</li> <li>1 tablespoon coconut oil</li></ul> <p>DIRECTIONS: <ol> <li> In large, heavy bottomed soup pan sauté diced shallots and coconut oil over medium/low heat until softened.</li> <li>Add garlic, sweet potatoes, sea salt, pepper, cinnamon and sauté an additional minute.</li> <li>Add vegetable broth and water, cook utnil potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. Add leeks and cook an additional two minute</li> <li>Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a standing blender) to rough puree the soup.</li> <li>Add kale, corn and cook until kale is softened. Add additional salt and pepper to taste.</li></ol> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-E6b_iqQ5rfQ/VSyFfxPL8XI/AAAAAAAASTM/O-CM0OrBX7g/s1600-h/2015-04-13%25252015.48.12%25255B19%25255D.png"><img title="sweet potato, corn, + kale chowder" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="sweet potato, corn, + kale chowder" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Wba0s2zkGp0/VSyFgmhFaCI/AAAAAAAASTU/bPOPzzTEmw4/2015-04-13%25252015.48.12_thumb%25255B20%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="543" height="557"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--8Ar8ehwToo/VSyFhGolB_I/AAAAAAAASTc/u2CmaFRb67o/s1600-h/2015-04-13%25252015.50.11%25255B15%25255D.png"><img title="sweet potato, corn, + kale chowder" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="sweet potato, corn, + kale chowder" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8mXQ-isgczM/VSyFh6RxzZI/AAAAAAAASTk/0V2y8rTu6iE/2015-04-13%25252015.50.11_thumb%25255B16%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="497" height="608"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4TWuzZAwbbU/VSyFivX_PKI/AAAAAAAASTs/yaG6Jr1JwaA/s1600-h/2015-04-13%25252015.50.26%25255B14%25255D.png"><img title="sweet potato, corn, + kale chowder" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="sweet potato, corn, + kale chowder" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1w5ihZ3lu_0/VSyFjA8U2gI/AAAAAAAAST0/iq73bXhg1iA/2015-04-13%25252015.50.26_thumb%25255B15%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="503" height="601"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hsjRAmZ5cUY/VSyFjiETevI/AAAAAAAAST8/YHX2swI0zjw/s1600-h/2015-04-13%25252015.51.29%25255B18%25255D.png"><img title="sweet potato, corn, + kale chowder" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="sweet potato, corn, + kale chowder" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gCfSjhK7GV8/VSyFkZ2YunI/AAAAAAAASUE/vT5vWZJqYjQ/2015-04-13%25252015.51.29_thumb%25255B19%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="495" height="611"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-13319723193171118862015-04-08T22:47:00.000-06:002015-04-09T07:57:40.094-06:00It’s All Greek to Me – Greek Burgers with Homemade Tatziki<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PJDPGu0Rc_o/VSYEPDUs-lI/AAAAAAAASPE/g6AGf2rU6JQ/s1600-h/GreekBurgers2%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Homemade Greek Burgers with Tatziki | It's All Greek to Me Food Blog Tour #OneYrGreek | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Greek Burgers with Tatziki | It's All Greek to Me Food Blog Tour #OneYrGreek | Shan Made" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-d67SU-4Vn18/VSYEPksxSJI/AAAAAAAASPM/XeSANvbnZF4/GreekBurgers2_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a></p> <p>Happy Thursday! I am celebrating Greek style today as part of a one-year anniversary blog tour for <a href="https://twitter.com/iamdebbiem" target="_blank"><strong>Debbie Matenopoulos’</strong></a> cookbook <em><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/193952993X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=193952993X&linkCode=as2&tag=shamad0a-20&linkId=ZPJQS7K2HSVXV7TZ" target="_blank"><strong>It’s All Greek to Me</strong></a>. </em>I’m thrilled to be a part of this #OneYrGreek food blog tour and to share the amazing recipe I reviewed for it. </p> <p> </p> <p><img title="Greek2" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Greek2" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Sk1Mym9Q0BA/VSYEQOzoTdI/AAAAAAAASPQ/lsktY9LI0BU/Greek2_thumb.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="130"></p> <p> </p> <p>If you are looking for Greek recipes, cooking tips, advice, inspiration, and a visual foray into the wonderful country of Greece, including its food & people, then you must pick up this book! It is more than just recipes, but a catalogue of experiences and stories through a beautiful place, <a href="http://www.iamdebbiem.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Debbie Matenopoulos</strong></a> who is full of energy & love for Greece and its food. </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/193952993X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=193952993X&linkCode=as2&tag=shamad0a-20&linkId=ZPJQS7K2HSVXV7TZ"><img title="OneYrGreek" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="OneYrGreek" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-eMiU-T0JjnY/VSYEXxv49pI/AAAAAAAASQw/FnonA2KgEF4/OneYrGreek%25255B4%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="300" height="300"></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Before I begin with the recipe, I have to say these were some of the best hamburgers I’ve ever had. The mixture of fresh herbs, especially the mint, with the lemon juice, and the wonderful addition of bread into the meat (please tell me why I haven’t thought of this before), made for a flavorful, aromatic, and oh so juicy burger. I’d call it a Greek meatball burger. I am still thinking about the way the parsley smelled with the lemon juice and mint. Such a delicious flavor combination. With some fresh tomatoes and tatziki, + a yummy bun you have a perfect meal that is fresh, easy, and wonderfully Greek. </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqRsL7NtqGtHE2SFNRBvcjuxLDYvM7UNEC7iyg9PfiWSBxQaKMA_snB_e_1X6OndGUwi4wfWCoMBkqJQ-_2OUerxhNJ4EIEnRVKqcijA3qBiI9DWgyU0QgKMoCb82JM-IaHfGRSGJqgS3o/s1600-h/2015-04-06%25252023.46.31%25255B16%25255D.png"><img title="Homemade Greek Burgers with Tatziki | It's All Greek to Me Food Blog Tour #OneYrGreek | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Greek Burgers with Tatziki | It's All Greek to Me Food Blog Tour #OneYrGreek | Shan Made" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-eg4wWoj0uq8/VSYEQ-qJCQI/AAAAAAAASRA/6QqwjW27SxA/2015-04-06%25252023.46.31_thumb%25255B18%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="550" height="618"></a></p> <p>My favorite part of cooking these burgers is that they are baked, not grilled or fried, so the prep work is extremely easy and they are all ready at the same time. While the burgers were baking I was able to get my kitchen cleaned up, other ingredients prepped, and the dinner table set. Win.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0KgMKc32ggc/VSYHOmM9BEI/AAAAAAAASRI/XpJmCqENR2A/s1600-h/2015-04-06%25252023.49.42%25255B8%25255D.png"><img title="Homemade Greek Burgers with Tatziki | It's All Greek to Me Food Blog Tour #OneYrGreek | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Greek Burgers with Tatziki | It's All Greek to Me Food Blog Tour #OneYrGreek | Shan Made" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-l9cb8EUKgRQ/VSYERqNKJ0I/AAAAAAAASRQ/xWIvAppG_z4/2015-04-06%25252023.49.42_thumb%25255B10%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="550" height="599"></a></p> <p>Traditionally, these hamburger patties are fried, but Debbie’s baked version is light, healthy, and flavorful.</p> <p><em>It’s All Greek to Me</em>, Greek Hamburgers or <i>Keftethes (kef-TEH-thes): </i></p> <ul> <li>1 cup day-old bread, crusts removed, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 1 to 2 slices)</li> <li>11/2 pounds lean ground beef or turkey</li> <li>1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped</li> <li>3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley</li> <li>1/2 teaspoon dried oregano</li> <li>1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh mint</li> <li>1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)</li> <li>1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil</li> <li>2 large eggs</li> <li>3/4 teaspoon sea salt</li> <li>1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper</li> <li>1/2 cup all-purpose flour</li></ul> <p><em>It’s All Greek to Me</em>, Homemade Tatziki, <em>(dza-DZEE-kee)</em>:</p> <ul> <li>1/2 Seedless English cucumber, peeled</li> <li>1 tsp. sea salt, divided (plus more to taste)</li> <li>2 c. plain Greek yogurt</li> <li>3 cloves garlic, peeled and mashed into a paste</li> <li>1/3 c. extra-virgin olive oil</li> <li>1 Tbsp. red or white wine vinegar</li> <li>1 Tbsp. minced fresh dill</li></ul> <p>Directions, Greek Hamburgers:</p> <ol> <li>Soak the bread briefly in a bowl of water until wet all the way the through. Squeeze the bread to remove excess water and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add the ground beef or turkey, onion, parsley, oregano, mint, lemon juice, olive oil, eggs, salt, and pepper, and knead with impeccably clean hands until well combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 hour.</li> <li>Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly oil a large baking dish.</li> <li>Shape the meat mixture into individual patties, about 1-inch thick and 3 inches across. Spread the flour out on a large dish. Dredge each patty in the flour to lightly dust both sides and shake off any excess flour. Neatly arrange the patties in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Serve immediately with <i>Tzatziki </i>on the side, if desired.</li></ol> <p>Directions, Tatziki: <ol> <li>Coarsely grate the cucumber using a box grater or food processor, and toss with 1/2 teaspoon of the salt. Place the grated cucumber in a fine-mesh sieve set over a bowl, and drain for 10 minutes. Working in batches, a handful at a time, squeeze as much remaining water from the cucumber as possible, transferring the drained cucumber to a medium mixing bowl.</li> <li>Add the rest of the ingredients along with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and mix well. You can serve the Tzatziki immediately, but I prefer to let it sit in refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours so that all of the flavors blend and come alive. Tzatziki will keep for up to 5 days in the refrigerator, but be warned: the garlicky flavor intensifies as time passes! </li></ol> <p>Once the burgers are done, place on buns and top with tomatoes, tatziki and any other fresh herbs or veggies you’d like. Prepare to fall in love, Greek style.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oUXUFT04UEY/VSYESZP1xuI/AAAAAAAASPs/CGVU18qJk6M/s1600-h/2015-04-06%25252023.44.10%25255B4%25255D.png"><img title="Homemade Greek Burgers with Tatziki | It's All Greek to Me Food Blog Tour #OneYrGreek | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Greek Burgers with Tatziki | It's All Greek to Me Food Blog Tour #OneYrGreek | Shan Made" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KffOZ21r6d0/VSYETBMsGsI/AAAAAAAASP0/ISiswyqANBE/2015-04-06%25252023.44.10_thumb%25255B5%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="550" height="579"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-X1uk5PLi6Y4/VSYET0EWLRI/AAAAAAAASP8/NYNeDLqcwJc/s1600-h/2015-04-06%25252023.47.59%25255B9%25255D.png"><img title="Homemade Greek Burgers with Tatziki | It's All Greek to Me Food Blog Tour #OneYrGreek | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Greek Burgers with Tatziki | It's All Greek to Me Food Blog Tour #OneYrGreek | Shan Made" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IwxY_fI4vlM/VSYEUklhO-I/AAAAAAAASQE/d0M71QLn0VI/2015-04-06%25252023.47.59_thumb%25255B10%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="550" height="587"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HweyWX_Zy-k/VSYHQid0xPI/AAAAAAAASRY/ZbBe68Dh3sA/s1600-h/2015-04-06%25252023.45.08%25255B11%25255D.png"><img title="Homemade Greek Burgers with Tatziki | It's All Greek to Me Food Blog Tour #OneYrGreek | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Greek Burgers with Tatziki | It's All Greek to Me Food Blog Tour #OneYrGreek | Shan Made" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9GODIchD8Hc/VSYEV14aMTI/AAAAAAAASRg/bhFZNNe7ozk/2015-04-06%25252023.45.08_thumb%25255B12%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="550" height="589"></a></p> <p>Amazon rated this cookbook as one of its top books in 2014! I love reading the reviews about how authentic Debbie’s food really is! Go here to purchase <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/193952993X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=193952993X&linkCode=as2&tag=shamad0a-20&linkId=ZPJQS7K2HSVXV7TZ" target="_blank"><strong><em>It’s All Greek to Me</em></strong></a><strong><em>. </em></strong>And see other food bloggers on the #OneYrGreek tour below. Enjoy!</p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fpHORvFbpFw/VSYEWlNBDGI/AAAAAAAASQQ/DsFOO7OJeXg/s1600-h/Greek3%25255B2%25255D.png"><img title="Greek3" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Greek3" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bzCd9aG5LiI/VSYEXIVI8wI/AAAAAAAASQc/OoC8RuXZeuU/Greek3_thumb.png?imgmax=800" width="550" height="550"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-51662455985616449422015-04-06T16:46:00.001-06:002015-04-06T16:46:16.303-06:00General Conference Printables<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZKXdiZqs5PM/VSMMj29lbAI/AAAAAAAASMs/UdD7RpqdsvI/s1600-h/_GCPrintables%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables // Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables // Shan Made" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-q9QXkRTtFRg/VSMMkXTZ4-I/AAAAAAAASM0/sqXcOz6Nl10/_GCPrintables_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="688"></a> </p> <p>As you may know from reading my blog in the past, twice a year <a href="https://www.lds.org/?lang=eng" target="_blank"><strong>our church</strong></a> holds a <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/sessions?cid=HP14GC&lang=eng" target="_blank"><strong>General Conference</strong></a> to address the millions of members around the world. We receive modern day revelation and teachings about being better people, living our beliefs more fully, and overall to feel inspiration and hear uplifting words. I am so grateful for the help and comfort of <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/sessions?cid=HP14GC&lang=eng" target="_blank"><strong>General Conference</strong></a> twice each year. Here are some lettering quotes I put together, available as free downloadable printables here on my site. Whatever your beliefs, most of these messages are great inspiring ideas to improve ourselves.</p> <p>Click each image to be directed to a PDF for printing. Each printable is sized as an 8x10, but you can scale as needed for printing.</p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_PerfectLove.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ctkM_npd_Wo/VSMMlLo515I/AAAAAAAASM8/ibMKCzAT-ZA/_PerfectLove%25255B14%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a></p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_ChooseToBelieve.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OrdTZpdTvyQ/VSMMl6IbQRI/AAAAAAAASNE/RQ9FaIvfJQw/_ChooseToBelieve%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a></p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_Excellence.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hp69aTGfdm0/VSMMmX2RM0I/AAAAAAAASNM/MU8KkglIAHs/_Excellence%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a></p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_Focus.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jk4PySNX5mc/VSMMm8A2hdI/AAAAAAAASNQ/Ebq9JIUe4CE/_Focus%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a></p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_HisCause.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vMsc5VDA7to/VSMMneI_fjI/AAAAAAAASNc/QTzwL8H2-oE/_HisCause%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a></p> <p> <a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_Kindness.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-agvpoTpdzgE/VSMMnyWVRzI/AAAAAAAASNg/Dm-K9-s7K-8/_Kindness%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a></p> <p> <a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_NotABurden.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KLg1DIvlsJA/VSMMoQEU7HI/AAAAAAAASNo/sPuaRn3FFEs/_NotABurden%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a> <a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_RaiseOurVoices.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FL7v8_k_BhI/VSMMpIIP-4I/AAAAAAAASNw/4BYmrM_GA_U/_RaiseOurVoiceas%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_UNRAVEL.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Rnu9-mgiAis/VSMMpp9T-HI/AAAAAAAASN8/d1_sVZW-_ck/_UNRAVEL%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_Vision.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-eM9JQYdYrOQ/VSMMq1NNJGI/AAAAAAAASOA/0MLxAaUogYw/_Vision%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_Wonderful.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4x9oFjQhmMY/VSMMrXfzdGI/AAAAAAAASOM/0J5CfaiJvXA/_Wonderful%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_WordAndDeed.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sUG_xVbXlws/VSMMryrMK7I/AAAAAAAASOU/EixAgHnKedo/_WordAndDeed%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a> <a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_COMPLETE.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-h3VwLM5zrBU/VSMMsdunrOI/AAAAAAAASOc/ciM-nMl6tDY/_COMPLETE%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_Embrace.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1bzoBjYCBFg/VSMMtKLSUfI/AAAAAAAASOk/5uNiAp51TcE/_Embrace%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/_Enthusiasm.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printables // Hand Lettering Printables" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-c4lbxiXaruI/VSMMtl9LrvI/AAAAAAAASOo/Ik0Nk5YOLbU/_Enthusiasm%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="552" height="690"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-12036729394651748132015-03-30T00:10:00.000-06:002015-04-15T16:13:36.307-06:00Chipotle Copycat Guacamole<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KxOVn2Rhizk/VRo6T8bAybI/AAAAAAAASKk/gKrWCjQ4mw4/s1600-h/ChipotleGuac%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="Copycat Chipotle Guacamole" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Copycat Chipotle Guacamole" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bzZMzuW5TpY/VRo6Uoa4jfI/AAAAAAAASKs/EN2kXEC87SY/ChipotleGuac_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a><br>Usually I think I can just throw together some ingredients when it comes to guacamole, and have it turn out well. After a couple of tries with that and the guac just being okay, I decided to look up Chipotle’s delicious guacamole recipe. I found it on <a href="http://www.popsugar.com/" target="_blank"><strong>PopSugar</strong></a> with a collaboration they did with Chipotle <a href="http://www.popsugar.com/food/Chipotle-Guacamole-Recipe-22129784" target="_blank"><strong>here</strong></a><strong>.</strong>Turns out I should have done this long ago. This was the best homemade guacamole I’ve ever made. I couldn’t eat enough of it. Next time you need some guac, try this recipe (and make lots ;) I was a little skeptical of the lemon juice, but trust me it’s delicious. They called for serrano chiles which I didn’t have so I substituted a jalapeno instead.<br>Ingredients, Chipotle Copycat Guacamole:<br> <ul> <li>3 large avocadoes <li>1 tbsp. citrus juice (lemon & lime combined – fresh juice) <li>1 1/2 c. cilantro, chopped fine <li>1/2 red onion, diced very thin <li>1/2 jalapeno, diced small (remove seeds unless you want it really spicy) <li>1/2 tsp salt (add more if needed)</li></ul>The recipe calls to mash the citrus juice in with this, but I prefer to pour it over the diced onions for about 5 minutes. I really think this helps cut down on the bite of the raw onions in the recipe. After onions have sat in the citrus juice for 5 minutes, roughly mash the avocadoes with a fork (leave some chunks!), then add remaining ingredients, including onions. Serve immediately! Also, I like my avocadoes chilled beforehand so my guac is cold. Is that strange? Also I topped mine with extra cilantro because I love it.<br> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mHGsCT2Ploc/VRo6VEVAWaI/AAAAAAAASK0/tK75AAh-Y78/s1600-h/2015-03-27%25252021.25.56%25255B5%25255D.png"><img title="Copycat Chipotle Guacamole" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Copycat Chipotle Guacamole" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VxLhLL6IBF4/VRo6V5NYBpI/AAAAAAAASK8/XkGcVHZJ7ic/2015-03-27%25252021.25.56_thumb%25255B8%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="678"></a><br> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Vf60u-ayCh8/VRo6WpUXsmI/AAAAAAAASLA/NmX9LpXUTKE/s1600-h/2015-03-27%25252021.26.42%25255B7%25255D.png"><img title="Copycat Chipotle Guacamole" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Copycat Chipotle Guacamole" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7Hc4v2yQF9o/VRo6XTsOZhI/AAAAAAAASLM/kQ_I_jD1YAI/2015-03-27%25252021.26.42_thumb%25255B9%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="582"></a><br> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cH4lVp8_D58/VRo6YZD2tJI/AAAAAAAASLU/k2lyyF6JNjI/s1600-h/2015-03-27%25252021.27.23%25255B4%25255D.png"><img title="Copycat Chipotle Guacamole" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Copycat Chipotle Guacamole" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-753wDszCnXw/VRo6Y4EggZI/AAAAAAAASLc/Prm96z995Rc/2015-03-27%25252021.27.23_thumb%25255B5%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="553"></a><br> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8kkaNEgdbXU/VRo6Zmrp7wI/AAAAAAAASLk/qWsjoi0ztCw/s1600-h/2015-03-27%25252021.28.13%25255B16%25255D.png"><img title="Copycat Chipotle Guacamole" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Copycat Chipotle Guacamole" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cymQcB_46QU/VRo6aaRHDkI/AAAAAAAASLs/_ee_fm-MMHA/2015-03-27%25252021.28.13_thumb%25255B17%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="590"></a><br> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ayrHyXv-Im0/VRo6bGJjTKI/AAAAAAAASL0/IMTmysJ6Qsc/s1600-h/2015-03-27%25252021.28.51%25255B8%25255D.png"><img title="Copycat Chipotle Guacamole" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Copycat Chipotle Guacamole" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WdcEVj2Rs6E/VRo6b2gV9qI/AAAAAAAASL8/Uo0EVOlX688/2015-03-27%25252021.28.51_thumb%25255B11%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="536"></a> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-27722359668669018372015-03-23T21:47:00.001-06:002015-03-23T21:47:30.670-06:00Tex Mex Hot Dogs with Jalapeno Crema<p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Qf62UB0niS0/VRDeNcuiR8I/AAAAAAAASIw/ii4PF250NLk/s1600-h/Tex%252520Mex%252520Hot%252520Dogs%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="Tex Mex Hot Dogs with Jalapeno Crema" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Tex Mex Hot Dogs with Jalapeno Crema" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uvdaDP4VhTE/VRDeN1A5k_I/AAAAAAAASI4/zdGMWco3yhM/Tex%252520Mex%252520Hot%252520Dogs_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a></p> <p>Do you ever see a recipe and begin salivating before you’ve even finished reading the ingredients? These Tex Mex hot dogs from<strong> </strong><a href="http://www.countrycleaver.com/2013/06/tex-mex-hot-dogs.html" target="_blank"><strong>Country Cleaver</strong></a> were that way for me. This is my kind of hot dog. Roasted. Loaded with veggies. (Basically the appearance of being healthy without actually being healthy ;) I cannot praise this recipe enough. It is so delicious. The best hot dogs we’ve ever had. My changes included making a jalapeno + cilantro crema rather than a basic crema as called (my husband doesn’t like plain sour cream), and omitting red peppers. Delicious and a really easy weeknight meal too!</p> <p>Ingredients:</p> <ul> <li>4 Hot Dog Buns</li> <li>4 Beef Franks</li> <li>1 cup canned Pinto Beans, drained and rinsed</li> <li>3 ears corn on the cob</li> <li>2 tomatoes, diced</li> <li>½ cup Red Onion, diced</li> <li>2 avocadoes, diced</li> <li>1 tsp. vinegar</li> <li>½ cup cilantro, chopped</li></ul> <p>Jalapeno Crema</p> <ul> <li>1/4 tsp. salt</li> <li>1 jalapeno, diced (if you want it spicier leave some seeds in, if not omit them)</li> <li>2 tsp. garlic, chopped</li> <li>1/2 c. Mexican crema (or sour cream)</li> <li>1/2 c. mayonnaise</li></ul> <p>Directions:</p> <ol> <li>First make your crema. In a blender or food processer add crema ingredients and blend until smooth. Set aside. </li> <li>Cook corn on the cob in boiling water (or you can grill it). Once cooked, cut corn off and set aside in bowl.</li> <li>Add to bowl or corn, half of the chopped cilantro, red onion, tomatoes, avocadoes, vinegar, and a dash of salt. Mix to incorporate flavors. Set aside.</li> <li>Cook hot dogs (I placed mine on a baking sheet and roasted at 400 degrees for 15 minutes).</li> <li>For last 5 minutes of baking, place hot dog buns on baking sheet and toast until golden brown. The Trader Joe’s hot dog buns are amazing! So thick and well made.</li> <li>Assemble hot dogs by placing them in buns, topping with pinto beans, and then corn salsa mixture. Garnish with jalapeno crema and a little extra cilantro. ENJOY!!</li></ol> <p><img title="Tex Mex Hot Dogs with Jalapeno Crema" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Tex Mex Hot Dogs with Jalapeno Crema" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pGmZ1KjyyiI/VRDeO1ozvcI/AAAAAAAASJA/Jx5zEXxmm7w/2015-03-22%25252018.52.30_thumb%25255B9%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="550" height="622"> <img title="Tex Mex Hot Dogs with Jalapeno Crema" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Tex Mex Hot Dogs with Jalapeno Crema" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-90KWVDOImQA/VRDePsr36sI/AAAAAAAASJI/A2Iy6-bnXPg/2015-03-22%25252018.50.05_thumb%25255B7%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="600" height="463"> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gBmECqvykZk/VRDeQfVEMyI/AAAAAAAASJQ/BB9W-2BWB2Q/s1600-h/2015-03-22%25252018.52.56%25255B23%25255D.png"><img title="Tex Mex Hot Dogs with Jalapeno Crema" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Tex Mex Hot Dogs with Jalapeno Crema" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1g3_TpRgx0w/VRDeRClCN8I/AAAAAAAASJY/Krypv1Simw8/2015-03-22%25252018.52.56_thumb%25255B25%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="513" height="590"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Y_TtKHpxTXA/VRDeR9NiZ3I/AAAAAAAASJg/eTAG-7RZYpk/s1600-h/2015-03-22%25252018.53.47%25255B10%25255D.png"><img title="Tex Mex Hot Dogs with Jalapeno Crema" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Tex Mex Hot Dogs with Jalapeno Crema" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gu8fuWx3VT8/VRDeSsujUnI/AAAAAAAASJo/fCSTfZ4WkUE/2015-03-22%25252018.53.47_thumb%25255B14%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="550" height="722"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-75cDDYOcL14/VRDeTYGt3cI/AAAAAAAASJs/XYdjDKaV9VM/s1600-h/2015-03-22%25252018.54.37%25255B12%25255D.png"><img title="Tex Mex Hot Dogs with Jalapeno Crema" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Tex Mex Hot Dogs with Jalapeno Crema" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Up3M020JK34/VRDeUaA_DSI/AAAAAAAASJ4/hXx7A_9uM0U/2015-03-22%25252018.54.37_thumb%25255B14%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="600" height="559"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-91002542979083986572015-03-17T00:59:00.000-06:002015-03-18T11:43:10.512-06:00Chopped Thai Chicken Salad with Lemon Garlic Dressing<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-M6PftGZXFBY/VQm2kgfaFiI/AAAAAAAASHI/Bf25rLcCO8c/s1600-h/LemonGarlicThaiChickenSalad%25255B16%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Lemon Garlic Chopped Thai Chicken Salad" border="0" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-i7qNQ01cmgQ/VQm2lOrvqqI/AAAAAAAASHQ/7GKQGaVYVK4/LemonGarlicThaiChickenSalad_thumb%25255B19%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="730" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Lemon Garlic Chopped Thai Chicken Salad" width="552" /></a> <br />
I adapted this salad from <a href="http://pinchofyum.com/chopped-thai-shrimp-salad-with-garlic-lime-dressing" target="_blank"><strong>Pinch of Yum</strong></a> with the ingredients I had on hand. It originally called for shrimp & lime which I substituted with lemon & chicken. After devouring our salads my husband and I both agreed this was our new favorite salad. I’ve been trying to think up more occasions to make it. You must try it! The dressing is amazing.<br />
Ingredients, Chopped Thai Chicken Salad:<br />
<ul> For the Garlic Lemon Dressing: <br />
<ul>
<li>½ cup olive oil </li>
<li>¼ cup white wine vinegar </li>
<li>juice of one lemon </li>
<li>2 tablespoons water </li>
<li>1 tablespoon honey </li>
<li>2 cloves garlic </li>
<li>1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper </li>
<li>1/4 tsp. crushed mint </li>
<li>1/4 tsp. parsley </li>
<li>1/2 tsp. salt</li>
</ul>
For the Chicken <br />
<ul>
<li>3/4 lb. chicken </li>
<li>salt </li>
<li>crushed mint </li>
<li>parsley </li>
<li>garlic powder </li>
<li>2 tbsp. olive oil</li>
</ul>
<br />
</ul>
For the Salad: <br />
<ul> <ul>
<li>4 cups of greens chopped thin (I used a mixture of lettuce, cabbage, & kale) </li>
<li>2 cups edamame, shelled and cooked </li>
<li>¾ cup cashews </li>
<li>optional: wonton strips, diced carrots</li>
</ul>
</ul>
Directions:<br />
<ol>
<li>Sprinkle seasonings over raw chicken breast. Heat a sautee pan to medium high. Once pan is hot pour oil into pan. Quickly place seasoned chicken breasts into hot pan. </li>
<li>Sear on each side until chicken is fully cooked. Set aside to rest.</li>
<li>Whisk dressing ingredients together, set aside.</li>
<li>Combined salad ingredients. Toss with dressing. Slice chicken and place atop salad. Can be served with chicken warm or cold We ate it warm and it was delicious. Enjoy!</li>
</ol>
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XzifgQ2ytY8/VQm2li8o0VI/AAAAAAAASHU/QpPQcrJCfI4/s1600-h/2015-03-17%25252017.22.16%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Lemon Garlic Chopped Thai Chicken Salad" border="0" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uCkrG_81MUw/VQm2mNrjAoI/AAAAAAAASHg/UkNnkIVN8yU/2015-03-17%25252017.22.16_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="733" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Lemon Garlic Chopped Thai Chicken Salad" width="550" /></a><br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GKjkxo8KxiM/VQm2mg3k5OI/AAAAAAAASHk/nhMLGt-MMhk/s1600-h/2015-03-17%25252017.23.20%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Lemon Garlic Chopped Thai Chicken Salad" border="0" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dOcegV0j60w/VQm2nGltJJI/AAAAAAAASHw/bJ7aJlskDXo/2015-03-17%25252017.23.20_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="733" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Lemon Garlic Chopped Thai Chicken Salad" width="550" /></a><br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xTXxKovvk4c/VQm2n_vnO2I/AAAAAAAASH4/J7v5-6y-Mh8/s1600-h/2015-03-17%25252017.20.58%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Lemon Garlic Chopped Thai Chicken Salad" border="0" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7ixMY93oXJY/VQm2odq32KI/AAAAAAAASIA/F0jPR9LcqF4/2015-03-17%25252017.20.58_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="733" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Lemon Garlic Chopped Thai Chicken Salad" width="550" /></a>Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-53672130621032212732015-03-10T23:10:00.001-06:002015-03-10T23:11:18.430-06:00Salted Zucchini Chips<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-T9I2gwSjSFA/VP_OJyFAXuI/AAAAAAAASE0/WXjm1jkQKzk/s1600-h/Zucchini%252520Chips%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Salted Zucchini Chips" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Salted Zucchini Chips" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-u_evyTGZpbI/VP_OKUXtUGI/AAAAAAAASE8/WLOuQ5R_QOc/Zucchini%252520Chips_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="553" height="729"></a>This is one of my favorite go-to healthy snacks. I love the flavor of roasted zucchini with a little salt. Try these and you’ll see! Just keep a couple zucchini in the fridge and when you have an afternoon craving for something unhealthy, roast these up instead.</p> <p>Ingredients:</p> <ul> <li>1-2 zucchini</li> <li>sea salt</li> <li>olive oil or cooking spray</li></ul> <p>Directions:</p> <p>Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Thinly slice your zucchini. The trick here is to not slice them too thin, but about 1/8 inch disks. If they are too thin they will burn.</p> <p>Lay zucchini disks out on a cooking sheet and spray with oil (or toss in a bag or bowl with a drizzle of oil). Cook for 4-8 minutes, keeping an eye on them closely so they don’t burn. As soon as they start to get golden brown, remove them and salt lightly. If you eat them right away they will be soft (so delicious), or you can wait for them to cool and set slightly. </p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2iYrmhKfkWU/VP_OLF7SfdI/AAAAAAAASFE/-eP04xuWrGw/s1600-h/2015-03-10%25252021.48.29%25255B5%25255D.png"><img title="Salted Zucchini Chips" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Salted Zucchini Chips" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kIa_6qmyCns/VP_OL8J0kxI/AAAAAAAASFM/kjjg7IIiNEk/2015-03-10%25252021.48.29_thumb%25255B6%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="522" height="579"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NnwAX1HpMcs/VP_OMa4eo5I/AAAAAAAASFU/zqBxsuzPXlE/s1600-h/2015-03-10%25252021.49.10%25255B10%25255D.png"><img title="Salted Zucchini Chips" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Salted Zucchini Chips" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wtXulk-0lXY/VP_ONGZSxoI/AAAAAAAASFc/GdSlirgQ-2k/2015-03-10%25252021.49.10_thumb%25255B12%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="518" height="584"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-54921403542259204242015-03-05T15:23:00.001-07:002015-03-05T15:24:35.178-07:00Coconut Banana Bread<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-REX0UkibAJ4/VPjXRufP6xI/AAAAAAAASCk/_hrH3EMJ6oo/s1600-h/CoconutOilBananaBread%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="Coconut Banana Bread" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Coconut Banana Bread" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kNwbVd1DdZw/VPjXSPPtPcI/AAAAAAAASCs/3KuzMcOlakQ/CoconutOilBananaBread_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="553" height="729"></a></p> <p> My favorite banana bread! The coconut oil gives it such a light a clean flavor. Stays so moist too with the coconut oil. </p> <p>Ingredients: <ul> <li>1 c. coconut oil <li>4 large very ripe bananas, mashed <li>1 c. light brown sugar <li>1/4 c. white sugar <li>2 tsp. vanilla <li>2 eggs <li>2 c. flour <li>2 tsp. baking powder <li>1/8 tsp. salt </li></ul> <p>Preheat oven to 375 and grease and loaf plan with cooking spray. In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the sugars, vanilla, eggs, bananas and coconut oil and beat until creamy and smooth.</p> <p>Add flour and baking powder and beat at low speed for about a minute, until you have a creamy batter. Pour into greased loaf pan. <em>Do not</em> fill all the way to the top because the bread will raise slightly. <p>Cook for 45-55 minutes, until just barely done. If you cover it right away and let it sit overnight it makes for the most moist banana bread breakfast. My family gobbled this up so quickly. Enjoy! <p> <img title="Coconut Banana Bread" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Coconut Banana Bread" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JPAAVhG1hks/VPjXTPcyvmI/AAAAAAAASC0/ULdp-m_cjEQ/2015-03-03%25252014.52.13_thumb%25255B4%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="550" height="550"></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-avW50o0y9d0/VPjXUL3EbKI/AAAAAAAASC8/tbGmFrSywUY/s1600-h/2015-03-03%25252014.51.12%25255B3%25255D.png"><img title="Coconut Banana Bread" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Coconut Banana Bread" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihqrOJS77D2DSI00hyphenhyphenYnMESB6CsJOEKaikeqicAmy6Qq3liMRBt_KTg1BAYwT41-8_CsYexQ8MWSCFplEAucitvik924j5BdFe5xRX2gFMaQD1GfAtWNtjCJpgG4i2fW2x4uURucwJtW5E/?imgmax=800" width="527" height="574"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBrghg9qSZwhyphenhyphen6oCkN4xuIctGLzhYQvuHYMKnnqJgKTmdPrLH7AL-naYRK4qoVBOdHKK-ObHmodRK8BOIIcAOB08d3fMaTOBZs17Xh29wlWEU1ipUQo7krBKhWG8Af7X5J_p4v_NTT7Aou/s1600-h/2015-03-03%25252014.52.28%25255B3%25255D.png"><img title="Coconut Banana Bread" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Coconut Banana Bread" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-s25u1YC2Y9k/VPjXWXBRhrI/AAAAAAAASDU/ucOYcOo-OSw/2015-03-03%25252014.52.28_thumb%25255B4%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="599" height="505"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-54245417700036864212015-02-25T16:15:00.001-07:002015-02-25T16:15:35.485-07:00Homemade Eggplant Parmesan<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-T7TFE8TRNBI/VO5XfQ1MWxI/AAAAAAAASA8/AtXIAldFo88/s1600-h/EggplantParmesan2%25255B21%25255D.jpg"><img title="Homemade Eggplant Parmesan | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Eggplant Parmesan | Shan Made" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MpI_M2LnrZI/VO5Xf2g6LHI/AAAAAAAASBE/Z_4kYH701oI/EggplantParmesan2_thumb%25255B25%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="730"></a></p> <p>Wow, how is it that I’ve never had Eggplant Parmesan before, until now? It is amazing. Veggies that are deep fried? I’m not sure it’s possible to go wrong. I looked up a couple recipes, and made mine based on what I thought might taste best. We had this when friends came over for dinner last weekend (along with my <a href="http://shan-made.blogspot.com/2013/10/crispy-italian-chicken-parmesan.html" target="_blank">chicken parmesan</a> & <a href="http://shan-made.blogspot.com/2013/10/easy-fettuccine-alfredo-with-real-cream.html" target="_blank">homemade fettuccini alfredo</a>) and they were coming back for seconds of this. </p> <p>Ingredients:</p> <ul> <li>1 eggplant, washed and sliced into 1/4” disks</li> <li>1 c. dry bread crumbs</li> <li>1 c. dry parmesan cheese</li> <li>2 tbsp. dry italian seasoning</li> <li>2 tsp. salt, plus a little more for sprinkling</li> <li>3 eggs</li> <li>2 tbsp. water</li> <li>Fresh parmesan cheese for topping</li> <li>Marinara sauce for topping</li> <li>Olive oil for frying</li></ul> <p>Directions:</p> <ol> <li>Lay eggplant disks flat onto large plate or tray. Sprinkle a little salt over them. Let sit for 20 minutes. The salt helps remove the bitter flavor that can come with some eggplant.</li> <li>Meanwhile, prep your other ingredients. In a large flat dish, combine dry bread crumbs, dry parmesan cheese, dry italian seasoning, and salt. Mix until well blended. Set aside.</li> <li>In another low, flat dish, whisk eggs together with 2 tbsp. water. Set aside.</li> <li>In a frying pan or large sauce pan, pour oil into pan until it comes 1/4” up the side. </li> <li>After 20 minutes, rinse the eggplant and pat dry. Heat oil in pan to medium high heat.</li> <li>Take one eggplant disk and drudge it in the egg wash, and then the bread crumb mixture. Using tongs, lower it into hot oil. Repeat with remaining eggplant disks.They will cook quickly in hot oil! After one minute flip the disks over.</li> <li>Once golden brown, remove from oil. Place in pan and cover with fresh parmesan cheese. You can serve it like this with marinara sauce on the side. Or if you need to set it aside for later, or would like to cook it with marinara sauce in the oven, pour red sauce over the eggplant, along with as much cheese as you’d like, and bake at 375 degrees for 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly. Let cool before eating.</li></ol> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hOgT0aJnJok/VO5XgshqLhI/AAAAAAAASBM/sf1qfD0anh8/s1600-h/2015-02-23%25252016.29.34%25255B8%25255D.png"><img title="Homemade Eggplant Parmesan | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Eggplant Parmesan | Shan Made" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KaJoDvfAB2E/VO5XhDk70BI/AAAAAAAASBU/_G9o4P9-OAs/2015-02-23%25252016.29.34_thumb%25255B11%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="550" height="491"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GJT6yPIiRpo/VO5Xh_yKVhI/AAAAAAAASBc/tbB554TSLKM/s1600-h/2015-02-23%25252016.30.05%25255B7%25255D.png"><img title="Homemade Eggplant Parmesan | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Eggplant Parmesan | Shan Made" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0EG7-NNnLiY/VO5XirjjzaI/AAAAAAAASBk/8In6DKJUAUE/2015-02-23%25252016.30.05_thumb%25255B9%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="550" height="638"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT7XeJyw_6kwRscuLZyHr-1bvznu5UOaFmbC6Zh_jCehR8AnKp1C-aw3TEjuuFyr5YXqatQM4C4UFsLcxxX_25EdY9B-I_Lk7U49kE9eGk4U8bEd7Y5BrSbybQkJ_37C0V5HdvrwfrKhqr/s1600-h/2015-02-23%25252016.30.36%25255B8%25255D.png"><img title="Homemade Eggplant Parmesan | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Eggplant Parmesan | Shan Made" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4h7hOxt6Yyo/VO5XkB4ploI/AAAAAAAASB0/TsQnnbzbF0s/2015-02-23%25252016.30.36_thumb%25255B9%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="550" height="521"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-P4RSH5K1srI/VO5Xkn73umI/AAAAAAAASB4/sSoP60Dn63w/s1600-h/2015-02-23%25252016.31.29%25255B14%25255D.png"><img title="Homemade Eggplant Parmesan | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Eggplant Parmesan | Shan Made" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-k_RRa6YmEM8/VO5XlTYVPNI/AAAAAAAASCE/P5_pCtzkWcc/2015-02-23%25252016.31.29_thumb%25255B17%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="550" height="615"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-13447619108885987182015-02-19T15:49:00.001-07:002015-04-06T22:10:10.713-06:00Homemade Acai Bowls<p>A couple weekends ago I was in California for a quick trip celebrating a friend’s birthday. I’d heard about açaí bowls before but never tried one. After eating 3 in 3 days at <a href="http://banzaibowls.com/" target="_blank">Banzai Bowls</a> I developed a slight obsession with them. Fresh, fruity, healthy, filling, and açaí berries supposedly have more antioxidants than any other food… what’s not to love? As soon as I got home I started looking up copy cat recipes for the homemade Banzai Bowl Maui Sunrise - and found one I loved from <a href="http://layersofhappiness.com/california-inspired-acai-sunrise-bowl/" target="_blank">Layers of Happiness here</a> & adapted it slightly. Love homemade banzai bowls! I also found açaí juice at our local Costco. Thank you Costco & <a href="http://sambazon.com/" target="_blank">Sambazon</a>.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-POWdn7GG1yg/VOZoaiZ-1DI/AAAAAAAAR_I/g5wTVJMFewg/s1600-h/AcaiBowls%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="Homemade Acai Bowls | Shan Made" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Acai Bowls | Shan Made" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LTMYTvCZ4Kg/VOZobQ0WBhI/AAAAAAAAR_Q/BAr1YREy3rg/AcaiBowls_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="732"></a> Homemade Acai Bowls:</p> <ul> <li>1 1/2 c. acai juice (or 1 acai smoothie pack + 1 c. almond milk) <li>1 banana <li>2 c. frozen strawberries <li>1/2 c. coconut milk</li></ul> <p>Toppings:</p> <ul> <li>Granola <li>Unsweetened shredded coconut <li>Sliced bananas <li>Berries of any kind <li>Drizzle of honey</li></ul> <p>Blend together the top ingredients. The mixture will be thick. If you’d like it colder you can add a handful of ice. Pour into a bowl and top with desired toppings. I’ve also tried blending in blueberries, pineapple, and other fruits I’ve had on hand. Tastes amazing really no matter what fruit you put in.</p> <p>Enjoy!</p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GdAXodh_APo/VOZob3CeGyI/AAAAAAAAR_U/mnvO8ItKBOE/s1600-h/2015-02-14%25252008.48.20%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img title="Homemade Acai Bowls | Shan Made" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Acai Bowls | Shan Made" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lC9Xc1Zra7s/VOZocZAiQXI/AAAAAAAAR_g/VM6gwfhE91Y/2015-02-14%25252008.48.20_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="550"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-urZfY7Ogolc/VOZodFXd9xI/AAAAAAAAR_o/9fvB_m8pzyM/s1600-h/2015-02-14%25252008.47.52%25255B35%25255D.jpg"><img title="Homemade Acai Bowls | Shan Made" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Acai Bowls | Shan Made" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PucYCiMcLYE/VOZodt7vwfI/AAAAAAAAR_s/t9T3AJ7D69A/2015-02-14%25252008.47.52_thumb%25255B33%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="412"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LzQuIaexeFY/VOZoeLCI3rI/AAAAAAAAR_0/roLnV0lJg0w/s1600-h/2015-02-14%25252008.47.56%25255B19%25255D.jpg"><img title="Homemade Acai Bowls | Shan Made" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Homemade Acai Bowls | Shan Made" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VHaC4AdQQYA/VOZoeaVvpzI/AAAAAAAASAA/4PzUui5B0KI/2015-02-14%25252008.47.56_thumb%25255B17%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="412"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-58308640113821496272014-10-28T20:20:00.001-06:002014-10-28T20:20:56.089-06:00Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-iY5OeF4gbFE/VFBO6jGyIWI/AAAAAAAAR1Y/7mUf6yrzkTU/s1600-h/Pumpkin%252520Chocolate%252520Cookies%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RStYmNHfJS4/VFBO7dM-jZI/AAAAAAAAR1g/VaBY_P1kp8I/Pumpkin%252520Chocolate%252520Cookies_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> My husband’s favorite fall treat of choice. I should have probably made them 5 times by now as it is the end of October, but I worry I’ll eat too many if they’re around! We love this recipe and use it every year! I also added a cinnamon cream cheese frosting on top & heated it up so I could spoon it on like a glaze. You must try these! We love them.</p> <p>Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies:</p> <ul> <li>1/2 c butter room temp </li> <li>1 1/2 c sugar </li> <li>1 egg </li> <li>1 tsp vanilla extract </li> <li>1 c pumpkin puree</li> <li>2 1/2 c all purpose flour </li> <li>1 tsp baking powder </li> <li>1 tsp baking soda </li> <li>1 tsp salt</li> <li>1 tsp cinnamon </li> <li>1 tsp nutmeg</li> <li>1 c chocolate chips</li></ul> <p>Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cream butter and sugar together in a stand mixer. Once mixed well add egg, vanilla, and pumpkin, and mix again. Separately, combine dry ingredients. Slowly add dry ingredients to wet mixture, and then add the chocolate chips last.</p> <p>GREASE your cookie sheets with cooking spray. This is unlike normal chocolate chip cookies but it helps them slide right off. Cook for 15 minutes or until first sign of brown appears on top.</p> <p>Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:</p> <ul> <li>1/2 block cream cheese</li> <li>1/2 stick butter</li> <li>2 –3 c. powdered sugar</li> <li>3 –4 tbsp. milk</li> <li>1 tbsp cinnamon</li></ul> <p>Beat cream cheese in stand mixer until soft and light. Slowly add butter and continue to mix until whipped. Slowly add powdered sugar and cinnamon. Add milk slowly until it is whipped into a thick butter cream. Remove from stand mixer and place into microwave safe bowl. Heat for about 30 seconds or until frosting is melted. This helps the frosting coat the cookies but it will still remain thick. If you simply add more milk to the frosting it will be runny. Spoon the warm frosting onto the cookies and let set. Enjoy!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-p5nmhwdTmTA/VFBO7xo_gfI/AAAAAAAAR1k/eMwXPU4AuIw/s1600-h/2014-10-28%25252011.12.28%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KKRKSKR5L5I/VFBO8XxQIcI/AAAAAAAAR1w/hvrdXY8dSzA/2014-10-28%25252011.12.28_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fL5cjvvjCSU/VFBO8ygNB5I/AAAAAAAAR14/jc6cxoo34b8/s1600-h/2014-10-28%25252011.13.12%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IkMqpij55vo/VFBO9mVcXWI/AAAAAAAAR2A/aHb4dvF7WA4/2014-10-28%25252011.13.12_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-06CnymgeZzI/VFBO-cxGfEI/AAAAAAAAR2I/dYZSConzO2U/s1600-h/2014-10-28%25252011.13.22%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bmKXWk4fk0I/VFBO-6hX9JI/AAAAAAAAR2Q/ri6C3o7FArM/2014-10-28%25252011.13.22_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-o4F7yxoscpk/VFBO_dqHPdI/AAAAAAAAR2Y/WNyvXlBdjxk/s1600-h/2014-10-28%25252011.12.53%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BZhBVDX8kkU/VFBO_8sCvoI/AAAAAAAAR2c/t9wvTWFkXww/2014-10-28%25252011.12.53_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-8640687712357082412014-10-07T16:10:00.001-06:002014-10-07T16:11:56.081-06:00Trader Joes Carolina BBQ Burger<p></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-S0rBiJmJnQ0/VDRkuYU23NI/AAAAAAAARy4/JWHP5T7uRwA/s1600-h/Carolina%252520BBQ%252520Burger%25255B43%25255D.jpg"><img title="Trader Joes Carolina BBQ Burger" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Trader Joes Carolina BBQ Burger" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Il9xAo8br5U/VDRkvO_CLJI/AAAAAAAARzA/Z0Ixs4SXhTU/Carolina%252520BBQ%252520Burger_thumb%25255B47%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="554" height="727"></a>I love to experiment with new kinds of burgers. The other week I cooked a burger in our favorite BBQ sauce – Carolina Gold BBQ sauce from Trader Joes, topped it with Trader Joes guac and some cheese and tomatoes, and it was the best flavor combo. The whole time we were eating them we couldn’t believe how well the flavors went together. The trick is to actually cook the burger in BBQ sauce – not just put it on top. This is such an easy dinner or meal – you should try it!</p> <p>Ingredients:</p> <ul> <li>Ground beef</li> <li>Sliced cheese</li> <li>Trader Joes Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce</li> <li>Guacamole (we love the guac shown below from Trader Joes – it’s made with greek yogurt)</li> <li>Sliced tomatoes</li> <li>Hamburger buns</li> <li>Seasonings for meat (my special burger seasoning combo is below):</li> <ul> <li>Garlic powder</li> <li>Dill</li> <li>Onion powder</li> <li>Salt</li></ul></ul> <p>Directions:</p> <ol> <li>Place skillet pan on stove and turn heat to medium high.</li> <li>Meanwhile, form patties from ground beef. Season each side with seasonings listed above (or your own mixture!)</li> <li>Turn patties out onto pan once it’s hot. Cover.</li> <li>After 2-4 minutes on the first side (depending on how done you like your burgers and depending on how hot your pan is), flip burger (make sure both sides are seasoned).</li> <li>Cover again and cook for 2-3 minutes. </li> <li>While burger is still in pan, turn heat down to medium low and pour some BBQ sauce over the burger it. Enough to make sure it is covered.</li> <li>Cover and cook again for 1-2 minutes.</li> <li>Then place cheese on top and cover for another minute, until melted. </li> <li>Serve on buns, and add guacamole and tomatoes to burger. Also add more BBQ sauce to the buns before serving.</li></ol> <p>Get ready for a messy but delicious meal! <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ePKEiwo7eE0/VDRkvoUDJhI/AAAAAAAARzQ/LMSY4PDw7WY/s1600-h/2014-09-07%25252010.27.34%25255B4%25255D.png"><img title="2014-09-07 10.27.34" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="2014-09-07 10.27.34" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zUhpoD65efE/VDRkw8K_ZEI/AAAAAAAARzY/iwFI11ExAgk/2014-09-07%25252010.27.34_thumb%25255B5%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="646"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0_GLZ4SwmVc/VDRkxmcu3lI/AAAAAAAARzg/OpUKySMxpZw/s1600-h/2014-09-07%25252010.26.49%25255B9%25255D.png"><img title="2014-09-07 10.26.49" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="2014-09-07 10.26.49" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Wx9eYaFIeno/VDRkynPb3jI/AAAAAAAARzo/UcMVcmY-QAQ/2014-09-07%25252010.26.49_thumb%25255B10%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="564"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-EPHMu26Cn40/VDRkzY_AljI/AAAAAAAARzw/gJ9jUHPO9Cw/s1600-h/2014-09-07%25252010.25.50%25255B7%25255D.png"><img title="2014-09-07 10.25.50" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="2014-09-07 10.25.50" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-D6HJl3i2678/VDRk0Iv55MI/AAAAAAAARz4/JnLGw_fa0CA/2014-09-07%25252010.25.50_thumb%25255B10%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="522"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VmfcT7fTFJs/VDRk0yUdnjI/AAAAAAAAR0A/q9J2YZ9f3jE/s1600-h/2014-09-07%25252010.25.33%25255B7%25255D.png"><img title="2014-09-07 10.25.33" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="2014-09-07 10.25.33" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_Mg1igaIem8/VDRk12rp6rI/AAAAAAAAR0I/4VGUSsPrpr8/2014-09-07%25252010.25.33_thumb%25255B9%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="597"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-88620742593515232072014-10-04T20:38:00.001-06:002014-10-04T20:40:56.252-06:00General Conference Printables<p>Two weekends a year our <a href="http://www.lds.org/?lang=eng"><strong><u>church</u></strong></a> holds a <a href="http://www.lds.org/general-conference/watch?cid=HPFR100413105&lang=eng"><u><strong>general conference</strong></u></a> to address all our members and any visitors or investigators, worldwide. We receive uplifting messages, advice, stories, and guidance. It is the best time of the year (twice a year;). Our wonderful leaders are good people but human and imperfect like us. They help us live the Gospel and find ways to navigate the ups and downs of life. I am grateful for these two weekends where I can recharge and refocus! I am grateful for a church and leaders that give us high standards of how to live our lives and are always helping us improve!<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PODXGxPjHKM/VDCvGV1wvBI/AAAAAAAARxw/9pI_Kk0XkNM/s1600-h/GeneralConferencePrintables%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="GeneralConferencePrintables" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="GeneralConferencePrintables" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5X5Luq861bo/VDCvHGXDuyI/AAAAAAAARx4/-965v7VLuOU/GeneralConferencePrintables_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="688"></a> </p> <p>Here were some of my favorite quotes from conference so far. Click the photos to access the downloadable PDF links.</p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/QuestofaLifetime_ShanMade.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printable October 2014" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printable October 2014" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tK101Dckw0s/VDCvHqFqIZI/AAAAAAAARyA/WyXIOPt7r2Y/QuestofaLifetime%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="440"></a></p> <p><img title="LDS General Conference Printable October 2014" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printable October 2014" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_z6V_YrJDiE/VDCvIBkCBAI/AAAAAAAARyI/iIhmu2bS-1U/KindnessIsPowerful%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="440"></p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/WhichWayYouFaceQuote_ShanMade.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printable October 2014" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printable October 2014" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_QbfhguKSMo/VDCvI4_ZHmI/AAAAAAAARyQ/uUsNQwlXQLQ/WhichWayYouFace%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="440"></a></p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/AcknowledgeWeaknessesQuote_ShanMade.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printable October 2014" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printable October 2014" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-a9wa469CBS0/VDCvJfcfYWI/AAAAAAAARyY/nUvxfESLpg8/face%252520weaknesses%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="440"></a></p> <p><img title="LDS General Conference Printable October 2014" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printable October 2014" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YIouecelGT8/VDCvJwIwdhI/AAAAAAAARyg/-mgkxj49FJQ/wisemen%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="440"></p> <p><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/21362196/Blog/ChangeofHeart3.pdf" target="_blank"><img title="LDS General Conference Printable October 2014" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="LDS General Conference Printable October 2014" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-A6EfwdRrei8/VDCvKjHW9pI/AAAAAAAARyo/3ZJdOhZOmQg/ChangeofHeart3%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="440"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-59405122639802367342014-09-26T13:04:00.001-06:002014-09-26T13:05:13.831-06:00My Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4EYJZ3yvO4w/VCW4oTEkieI/AAAAAAAARnU/ETOcMfY1LKg/s1600-h/ChocolateChipCookies%25255B33%25255D.jpg"><img title="Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hg5bQTtyRKc/VCW4pYSsTyI/AAAAAAAARnY/_WdtRa64BBA/ChocolateChipCookies_thumb%25255B29%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> <p>These chocolate chip cookies have been my go-to for almost 10 years. They are fail-proof in my mind! They always turn out thick and chewy. You can make them small for a group or giant and they still turn out great. I love everything about these cookies! They stay soft for days because the butter to flour ratio is so high. My secret for keeping them soft is taking them out of the oven the second you see any brown appear on top. Even the tiniest bit. Then leave them on the tray for at least 10 minutes so they can slightly cook a little more without browning any more. When they come out they won’t be done at all. But in my experience if you wait until they’re all the way done they will be rock hard once they cool! Just take them out early… They will be delicious!</p> <p>Ingredients, Chocolate Chip Cookies:</p> <ul> <li>3/4 c. butter, softened</li> <li>3/4 c. brown sugar</li> <li>1/2 c. white sugar</li> <li>1 egg</li> <li>3/4 tsp. vanilla</li> <li>2 c. flour</li> <li>3/4 tsp. salt</li> <li>3/4 tsp baking soda</li> <li>2 c. chocolate chips</li></ul> <p>Cream butter and sugars in stand mixer for 2-3 minutes. Add egg and vanilla and keep beating for 1 min. Meanwhile in a separate bowl mix flour, salt, and baking soda. Slowly add dry mixture to wet mixture and cream. Then add the chocolate chips and mix quickly until incorporated.</p> <p>Bake at 365 degrees for 7-9 minutes, until first sign of brown on top. Then remove from oven and let cool on cookie sheet for 10 minutes. Transfer to cooling rack. <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-v-qu_68fQF0/VCW4pwi5w_I/AAAAAAAARng/B82FbDUCB_k/s1600-h/2014-07-31%25252014.55.09%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3GaFBYPQCXg/VCW4q1dnTaI/AAAAAAAARns/swnGdNPRRZY/2014-07-31%25252014.55.09_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-50602432822312669842014-09-17T15:51:00.001-06:002014-09-17T22:18:12.494-06:00Herringbone Quilt Tutorial<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-If969WOT9zo/VBoCJNMUYGI/AAAAAAAARjw/MGEoLbgJmA0/s1600-h/Herringbone%252520Quilt%252520Tutorial4%25255B24%25255D.jpg"><img title="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-y3knvjWgis0/VBoCH3X9GtI/AAAAAAAARjQ/KQI7f_2Xqu8/Herringbone%252520Quilt%252520Tutorial4_thumb%25255B22%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> This summer we decided it was time for our little girl to move to a “big girl bed” … she is very picky about blankets and her sleeping situation so we tried to get her excited about a new place to sleep and a new special blanket to sleep with. Doing this with her as a part of the process was so much fun for the two of us, and really allowed her to get excited for this project. She’s had the quilt for a couple months now and still gets excited to get tucked into it at night. I’d call that a success!</p> <p><img title="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nvFpZm-ZhtU/VBoCIZ6xUVI/AAAAAAAARgI/fc1Sfv2aXr8/Herringbone%252520Quilt%252520Tutorial2_thumb%25255B49%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="606" height="666"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-If969WOT9zo/VBoCJNMUYGI/AAAAAAAARj4/KFKTXfBBPhg/s1600-h/Herringbone%252520Quilt%252520Tutorial4%25255B22%25255D.jpg"></a></p> <p>I looked online through lots of quilt tutorials before deciding on the herringbone quilt. I couldn’t find one very detailed tutorial online so I thought I’d put one together here. I can sew okay but I’m definitely not a master seamstress so I needed something pretty simple and also something that would work with the fabrics I’d found. I loved the idea of a pattern on the entire back with the quilt squares pieced together on the front. I went with my daughter to pick out the fabric and get her input. She picked out the floral back and I picked a coordinating front color to match. </p> <p>Herringbone Twin Quilt Tutorial // 10 inch squares // 7 squares wide by 9 squares long // 63 total squares</p> <ul> <li>3 yards solid color fabric (in actuality you need about 2.5 yards but I got 3 to err on the side of caution)</li> <li>3 yards solid white fabric (in actuality you need about 2.5 yards but I got 3 to err on the side of caution)</li> <li>5-6 yards of patterned fabric for the backing (you will actually need about 5 but I had to stitch mine with a couple pieces to get the pattern to line up so you’ll need to consider this when you purchase your fabric. Also all fabric varies in width per yard so measure how wide it will be as well and calculate if you’ll need to double up)</li> <li>Quilt binding of your choice (I know a lot of people who make their own quilt binding – I do not! I purchase it by the notions and bias tape. The number of packs you need will depend on the size of the binding so double check before you purchase. I used 3 packs.)</li> <li>Twin Quilt batting: You can buy packs of twin quilt batting or you can do what I did – I found an old Twin quilt comforter, cut the edges off and used that as my batting. I’ve always bought loose batting for quilts but this was MUCH easier and the batting stayed together the whole time and was distributed evenly throughout the quilt. You know those cheap twin comforters at Target? Yep that’s what I used! As long as it’s a light color (mine was a light khaki) it won’t show through and it’s probably cheaper as well.</li> <li>LOTS of white thread ;) (I used 4 spools)</li> <li>Lots of safety pins</li> <li>10 inch square template, preferably made on cardstock or cardboard</li></ul> <p>Here we go!</p> <ol> <li>The first thing you’ll need to do is cut out your template. I made a 10 inch square but you could really use any size square you’d like. Use cardstock or cardboard or something thick.</li> <li>CUT SQUARES: Start cutting away. You can use a rolling quilting cutter or good old fabric scissors. You will have 63 total squares, so I cut 32 white and 32 mint green. I put a movie on and cut away. I’m not a perfectionist so not every square was precision to the millimeter, but you do have to keep the sizes pretty close to keep the quilt lined up. Once you cut one stack it in a pile and straighten the pile. As you go you’ll see if any don’t line up straight in the pile.</li> <li>HALVE SQUARES: Once your squares are cut fold them in half on the diagonal, and cut on the diagonal. You will get two triangles. My fabric wasn’t too thick so I could easily run my fingers through it. Stack the colored fabric triangles in one pile and the white fabric triangles in another pile.</li> <li>SEW SQUARES TOGETHER: Now take a white triangle and a colored triangle and line them up RIGHT SIDES IN. Then sew a line down the diagonal / longest edge of the triangle. I left about a 1/4 inch allowance between the stitch and the edge of the diagonal. Once you sew it you can open it up and see what your squares will look like! Keep sewing! You have lots of squares to make. <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8ATv8Z80iOY/VBoCJiAD42I/AAAAAAAARgY/URaOK88NX7s/s1600-h/2014-05-21%25252009.05.58%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-d8yVOWXSovk/VBoCKGtKzXI/AAAAAAAARgg/Yizt-2csQ-A/2014-05-21%25252009.05.58_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> </li> <li>Quality control on squares: Once you’ve sewn your squares, go through each one to make sure it looks square. Sometimes depending on the cut or your stitch it might not line up. If you can trim and edge to make it square, do that, but if not, you’ll need to remake the square. I had to remake a couple that weren’t lining up.</li> <li>LAY OUT QUILT TOP WITH SQUARES: Now comes the fun part, when you can see your quilt coming together! In a very wide open space, start laying out your herringbone pattern. You can also use these same squares to make a chevron quilt if you just change the colors around. My quilt was 7 squares wide by 9 long. If I was to make another twin quilt I might do 8x10 just to make it a little bigger. But 7x9 is also great as a smaller twin quilt.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FRpaqQIMwrs/VBoCKiXiptI/AAAAAAAARgk/wqj-m3DsJ0U/s1600-h/2014-05-21%25252013.32.17%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img title="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinQGUxdFghqU_bdVohv1qS7vHX03Nnct93tZu9vxU36RlHSDftQZuc3nUPNcFhDLfOuD8q6lPvFylobjz94GF7vAOBSYU-RrJ5Q-MQPXfTVTsnZpIARyiGhDVC5fO-lbTHpY6PcfiImcL9/?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> </li> <li>TRIPLE CHECK YOUR PATTERN: After I laid my squares out I noticed a couple were facing the wrong direction. Go through to make sure everything is facing the right direction.</li> <li>SEW ONE ROW AT A TIME: I pulled the squares from one row at a time and sewed the edge of each square together, one at a time, again leaving a 1/4 inch allowance. You’ll want to make sure your allowance on the entire quilt is very similar on all squares so your squares are about the same size! After you sew one row together, go lay it down back in its place on the floor with the rest of the quilt.</li> <li>SEW ENTIRE QUILT FRONT SQUARES TOGETHER: Once your rows are sewn together, you are ready to sew each together. Grab the first two rows, sew them together. Then add the third and so forth. Once you’re done you have your top done! TRIPLE CHECK YOUR PATTERN!! ;)<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8mcQ6I1CcyQ/VBoCLi34mGI/AAAAAAAARg4/gdWfku__pSI/s1600-h/2014-05-21%25252020.38.08%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7lgDQ1bMLcg/VBoCP9oBy0I/AAAAAAAARhA/bxVp86T7rZM/2014-05-21%25252020.38.08_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> </li> <li>MEASURE YOUR BACKING: Now lay your backing fabric on the floor, and then lay your quilt top over it. Measure the backing to fit the exact size as the front. I had to cut mine in a couple pieces to make it wide enough and to attempt to get the pattern to line up. Pin it together and then cut to size. </li> <li>SAFETY PINS: As a note I only use safety pins for pinning when I’m quilting. Regular pins just come out most of the time for me.</li> <li>SEW BACKING TOGETHER: If you’re lucky enough to have one huge piece of fabric that fits the whole back, you can skip this step, but if not, sew your backing together, keeping the seams turned in so they won’t be visible. </li> <li>QUILT SANDWICH: Now lay your backing on the floor, then your batting, and then your quilt top. Line up everything as close as you can. DON’T trim anything yet. Even if the edges don’t seem to line up you won’t know until you pin it all and sew it. I like to start pinning in the middle and work my way out (I started doing it on the edges and it just wasn’t lining up). Working form the center out takes a while to get right. Put a safety pin in the very center, and then go to the outsides and pull everything tight, and then do it again working your way out to the corners. After you’ve pinned it all flip it over to make sure you don’t have any creases or folds.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DsY43ZDiUsc/VBoCQQW89qI/AAAAAAAARhI/4BXVE2v0dMg/s1600-h/2014-05-21%25252021.41.49%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bVxxsZ_xwOg/VBoCQ0NyIZI/AAAAAAAARhM/Bz_2--P6vXk/2014-05-21%25252021.41.49_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> </li> <li>ROUGH STITCH: I honestly don’t even know if this is the right way to quilt – I just made it up as I went along so I hope this works for you! The main purpose of the rough stitch, in my opinion, is to just get the layers held together. I sewed one long stitch down the entire middle of the quilt to get it held together. (Of course make all your stitches on the lines of the squares.)</li> <li>REVIEW AGAIN: Once you get a rough stitch together lay it down again and tug at the edges to make sure it lines up. If it does then start sewing your rows together. If not you may need to rip out some seams to get it right.</li> <li>STITCH SQUARES ON ENTIRE QUILT One row at a time. Once those are done you’ll need to sew the columns. Let me tell you this was TOUGH with my little basic sewing machine. You have to tightly ROLL your edges in to even get this through a standard machine. If you have a large machine or quilting machine this should be pretty easy. I even found my machine sometimes tuggi ng at my stitches because it was so thick. It took some muscle to pull it through!<img title="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zRWs5_AYt48/VBoCRW0omhI/AAAAAAAARhU/kk-G7JQEwZ8/2014-05-25%25252021.37.21_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="412"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1ldbrielBAE/VBoCSFIQpAI/AAAAAAAARhg/Upit0VF0TPc/s1600-h/2014-05-22%25252001.25.34%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-v7qGPNDNx6U/VBoCTsFkrfI/AAAAAAAARhk/4-j669qAgE4/2014-05-22%25252001.25.34_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> </li> <li>STITCH DESIGN ON SQUARES: Once you’ve quilted around each square, you’re ready to decide what pattern you’d like on each square. I did two diagonals across the mint fabric and three across the white. If you have a quilter you can do some cool things here too! This took me a while so in the evenings my husband and I would put a movie on and I’d sew as many squares as I could. I did this whenever I could take up a whole evening to sew. I think it took about 5 total nights spread out over a couple weeks.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0lZy-RQdyOk/VBoCUFAFFvI/AAAAAAAARhs/ABVnddYcwqc/s1600-h/2014-05-25%25252023.14.20%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-t_bjFkMm0Po/VBoCUh2yUiI/AAAAAAAARh4/hHEVF1Ee1XE/2014-05-25%25252023.14.20_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> </li> <li>TRIM: Now you can trim all the edges to make them squared up and you also need to go through and trim all the thread ends. I tried to do this as I went, but there were still so many at the end!</li> <li>BINDING: I iron my pre-made binding first to get the creases out. Then I just line it up on the edges, pull it tight onto the edges and try to sew it as straight as I can, while making sure to include all layers of the quilt inside. I had to redo part of the binding on a quilt I made a couple years ago because some of the backing was missed on my stitching, so now I’m paranoid about getting this right. I double stitched the binding on to make sure it was sturdy. You’ll also have to sew the seams together if you use several packs of quilt binding. Wherever one starts and one begins, just layer them over each other and stitch together.</li> <li>Final trim of everything. And now you can actually appreciate all this work! It was much more than I thought I’d be going into it! Just take it one step at a time and you can do it. </li></ol> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_t4A_-YF3Cs/VBoCVb5gUpI/AAAAAAAARh8/2LGsOskYEWM/s1600-h/2014-08-15%25252012.41.55%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-N6ZwrwR1EJI/VBoCV9m4rJI/AAAAAAAARiI/tPVK22xtMO8/2014-08-15%25252012.41.55_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OG7A8MECIHI/VBoCWfvhPXI/AAAAAAAARiM/PF_nSEpZ3UM/s1600-h/2014-08-15%25252012.26.04%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GsU9xNLDDXM/VBoCXCykrLI/AAAAAAAARiU/d4JwH_82pPY/2014-08-15%25252012.26.04_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZqimjsE6_2k/VBoCXqR-g4I/AAAAAAAARig/0467IIyNFyg/s1600-h/2014-08-15%25252012.26.55%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-A8PIa6Loz3k/VBoCYJIrwbI/AAAAAAAARik/NmLing7YD2U/2014-08-15%25252012.26.55_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="412"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-MI17DlPMHA0/VBoCYsVU9FI/AAAAAAAARis/M8TViGVwhs4/s1600-h/Herringbone%252520Quilt%252520Tutorial3%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img title="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Herringbone Quilt Tutorial | Shan Made" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-eh2B1yBcdfg/VBoCZHTQOII/AAAAAAAARi4/Q__zhWbqR24/Herringbone%252520Quilt%252520Tutorial3_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-13065345804831539822014-08-07T15:32:00.001-06:002014-08-07T17:34:57.763-06:00Bacon, Avocado, & Almond Strawberry Salad<p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NBwXzPSpv8Q/U-QNHHqJrmI/AAAAAAAAQek/4NVv0meZBDY/s1600-h/Strawberry%252520Salad%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img title="Strawberry Salad" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Strawberry Salad" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lkDf9dV88lk/U-QNH2gJKjI/AAAAAAAAQes/TEZEj0vMZi4/Strawberry%252520Salad_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> </p> <p>In my mind any pairing of berries, nuts, avocado and bacon can make a perfect salad! Here is another.</p> <p>Ingredients:</p> <ul> <li>1 head chopped romaine lettuce</li> <li>1 avocado, diced</li> <li>1 quart pkg strawberries, sliced</li> <li>5-6 strips bacon, cooked crispy</li> <li>Almonds, diced</li> <li>Balsamic vinaigrette </li></ul> <p>Toss ingredients together and dress with balsamic. Perfect lunch salad! Sometimes I like to candy the almonds or walnuts for a salad, but this summer I’ve been loving just unflavored nuts in salads. You should try it!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7TN1qUd9lzw/U-PweeuaOQI/AAAAAAAAQeM/EY5kGxCNQtM/s1600-h/2014-07-14%25252013.23.15%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img title="2014-07-14 13.23.15" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="2014-07-14 13.23.15" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6F21whc81TM/U-Pwfd9_EpI/AAAAAAAAQeU/E4DPWgnnnHE/2014-07-14%25252013.23.15_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DTWUp6F5fQE/U-PwgAbR3MI/AAAAAAAAQd4/6TRZjjn1cdA/s1600-h/2014-07-14%25252013.22.24%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="2014-07-14 13.22.24" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="2014-07-14 13.22.24" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CkWu4yNNkKk/U-PwgyEf1MI/AAAAAAAAQeE/HntR-k-8iEg/2014-07-14%25252013.22.24_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-39235669323551932332014-08-04T14:11:00.001-06:002014-08-04T14:14:45.796-06:00Top Pot Blueberry Cake Doughnuts // Donuts Recipe<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ruZoSricnYk/U9_pkmpKpKI/AAAAAAAAQc0/2d_MWfxLnUo/s1600-h/TopPot_BlueberryCakeDoughnuts%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="TopPot_BlueberryCakeDoughnuts" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="TopPot_BlueberryCakeDoughnuts" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8rj581pajPQ/U9_plYFipJI/AAAAAAAAQc4/dwmuKrQkvhY/TopPot_BlueberryCakeDoughnuts_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> Hello long lost blog world! This summer has been filled with traveling, beaching, pool time, parks, and really little time for cooking or blogging. I must admit we’ve eaten way too many sandwiches, leftovers, or easy peasy meals. Nothing too fancy here! We’ve been soaking up summer but I have missed trying out new recipes and posting here. When we are busy during the summer with swim lessons and tball and park or pool dates I tend to stick with easy meals or my tried and true recipes (<a href="http://shan-made.blogspot.com/2014/04/lemon-salmon-with-creamy-dill-sauce.html" target="_blank">salmon</a>, <a href="http://shan-made.blogspot.com/2014/03/indian-spiced-chicken-with-masala.html" target="_blank">indian masala</a>, <a href="http://shan-made.blogspot.com/2014/04/the-complete-cafe-rio-sweet-pork-salad.html" target="_blank">cafe rio pork salads</a>, <a href="http://shan-made.blogspot.com/2014/04/turkey-bacon-avocado-club-with-creamy.html" target="_blank">BLTs</a>, <a href="http://shan-made.blogspot.com/2013/10/crispy-italian-chicken-parmesan.html" target="_blank">parmesan chicken</a> to name a few), but there is something so fun about testing out new dishes. I miss it. Trying to get back into the swing of that now that fall is almost here!</p> <p><img title="2014-08-04 14.45.38" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="2014-08-04 14.45.38" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NFwY81EUjDo/U9_ozpWpmaI/AAAAAAAAQbs/rYpJ1gEGAyA/2014-08-04%25252014.45.38_thumb%25255B5%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="540" height="630"></p> <p>Last year a good friend sent me the Top Pot Doughnut cookbook for my birthday. What a gift! It makes you salivate just turning the pages. Trust me. Two weekends ago I made these blueberry donuts for my family. And they were delicious. We love cake donuts and the blueberry flavor made them taste like they could be healthy (they weren’t) and very fresh. The only change I made to the recipe was substituting fresh blueberries for jam in the glaze. There were these thick chunks of blueberries in the glaze that tasted like little bursts of flavor. I’d recommend this if you have enough but if not I’m sure their recipe is great too. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6i0XyazekVg/U9_o1RskLWI/AAAAAAAAQb0/1w7HbHxRXlY/s1600-h/2014-07-16%25252013.35.28%25255B4%25255D.png"><img title="2014-07-16 13.35.28" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="2014-07-16 13.35.28" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-IYw6ihX-p6Y/U9_o2moS6wI/AAAAAAAAQb8/YrsypP2kOM8/2014-07-16%25252013.35.28_thumb%25255B6%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="540" height="626"></a></p> <p>Ingredients, Top Pot blueberry cake doughnuts:</p> <ul> <li>2 3/4 cup flour</li> <li>1 tsp. baking powder</li> <li>1 tsp. salt</li> <li>3/4 tsp. ground nutmeg</li> <li>2/3 c. sugar</li> <li>2 tbsp. vegetable shortening </li> <li>1 large egg </li> <li>1 large egg yolk </li> <li>2/3 c. whole milk </li> <li>3/4 c. fresh blueberries</li> <li>canola oil for frying</li></ul> <p>Directions:</p> <ol> <li> Sift the flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg together into a medium bowl, and set aside.</li> <li>In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, mix the sugar and shortening/vegetable lard for 1 minute on low speed, until sandy. Add the egg and egg yolk, then mix 1 more minute on medium speed, scraping the sides of the bowl with a spatula if necessary, until the mixture is light and thick.</li> <li>Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three separate additions, alternating with the milk, mixing until just combined on low speed each time. Mix in the blueberries. The dough will be very sticky, like very wet cookie/biscuit dough.</li> <li>Transfer the dough to a clean bowl and refrigerate, covered directly with plastic wrap/cling film, for 1 hour (or up to 24 hours).</li> <li>Using a candy thermometer to measure the temperature, heat oil (at least 2 in/5 cm deep) in a deep fryer, large pot, or high-sided frying pan over medium heat to 370°F/185°C. (See the frying tips.) Gently roll out the chilled dough on a counter or cutting board floured with about 1/4 cup/30 g cake/softwheat flour to 1/2 in/12mm thick, or about 8 in/20 cm in diameter, flouring the top of the dough and the rolling pin with another 2 tbsp flour, or as necessary to prevent sticking— this is a soft, wet dough. Cut into as many doughnuts and holes as possible, dipping the cutter into flour before each cut. Fold and gently reroll the dough to make extra holes (working with floured hands makes the dough less sticky), and cut again. (Note: Because this is such a soft dough, you may find it easier to cut the doughnuts just a few at a time, right before you add them to the oil, instead of cutting them all out<br>ahead of time. Transferring them is easiest with a flat metal spatula.)</li> <li>Shake any excess flour off the doughnuts before carefully adding them to the hot oil a few at a time, taking care not to crowd them. Once the doughnuts float, fry for about 60 seconds per side, or until deep golden brown on both sides. (You’ll know they’re ready to turn the first time when you see the golden brown color creeping up from the bottom of the doughnut.) Drain on paper towels/absorbent paper.</li> <li>While the doughnuts are still quite hot, dip one side into the blueberry glaze. Let dry on cooling racks, glazed side up, for about 15 minutes.</li></ol> <p><img title="2014-08-04 14.50.55" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="2014-08-04 14.50.55" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wSVpFGqaWGU/U9_o3sw133I/AAAAAAAAQcE/frNyLmtRA1o/2014-08-04%25252014.50.55_thumb%25255B10%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="540" height="615"></p> <p>Ingredients, blueberry glaze:</p> <ul> <li>3 1/2 c. confectioner's sugar</li> <li>1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract</li> <li>1/3 cup milk</li> <li>1 c. fresh blueberries slightly mashed</li></ul> <p>Place all ingredients except blueberries in a stand mixer with a whisk attachment. Whisk until creamy and incorporated. Then slowly add blueberries, allowing them to slightly crush with the mixer. Stop mixing before they become pureed. Drizzle over warm doughnuts on cooling rack. </p> <p> <img title="2014-07-16 13.35.53" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="2014-07-16 13.35.53" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-s_K8x0iRprM/U9_o40HhdOI/AAAAAAAAQcM/ZfkNXhFIC78/2014-07-16%25252013.35.53_thumb%25255B6%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="540" height="653"> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4Lj3p3ro9gs/U9_o5667IZI/AAAAAAAAQcU/R4DGA4RFnRc/s1600-h/2014-07-16%25252013.35.12%25255B9%25255D.png"><img title="2014-07-16 13.35.12" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="2014-07-16 13.35.12" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kY4Gc2UyOZ4/U9_o7EXpk0I/AAAAAAAAQcc/rEbkDKUyHlk/2014-07-16%25252013.35.12_thumb%25255B12%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="540" height="648"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-J9QI2CSwpsY/U9_o8JRVuBI/AAAAAAAAQcg/5can-T9Z-GM/s1600-h/2014-07-16%25252013.34.40%25255B21%25255D.png"><img title="2014-07-16 13.34.40" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="2014-07-16 13.34.40" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--PCnvBu1Fno/U9_o9A7i-DI/AAAAAAAAQcs/AHHQb2Uk73w/2014-07-16%25252013.34.40_thumb%25255B25%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="615" height="491"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-64176598299570314472014-05-02T15:24:00.001-06:002014-05-02T15:24:17.629-06:00Easy Homemade Cauliflower Rice<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5YmMDuXnF6I/U2QM9G9MwFI/AAAAAAAAQDU/eRMH0eal2EU/s1600-h/Cauliflower%252520Rice%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="Easy Homemade Cauliflower Rice" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Easy Homemade Cauliflower Rice" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FKoq0LzeH-s/U2QM9_5TwLI/AAAAAAAAQDc/RjRQnqIohDU/Cauliflower%252520Rice_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> When I’m trying to eat fewer carbs this is such a great recipe to pair anything with! I love it with meatballs and homemade roasted tomato sauce or with salmon.</p> <p>Ingredients, Homemade Cauliflower Rice:</p> <ul> <li>1 head cauliflower</li> <li>2 tsp. minced garlic or 1 clove garlic, diced</li> <li>1 onion, diced</li> <li>2 tbsp. olive oil</li> <li>salt or garlic salt to taste</li></ul> <ol> <li>Start by chopping all the heads or florets off of the cauliflower. Throw them into a food processor. Don’t process them to a puree, but just for a minute until the florets are finely chopped. Set aside.</li> <li>In a saucepan or skillet pan, sautee the diced onion in olive oil. Once onions are soft, add garlic, cover and sautee for another two minutes until the garlic is soft. </li> <li>Add cauliflower and stir to incorporate onions and garlic. Cover and let warm on medium-low heat for about 15 minutes. You can add a tiny bit more oil if you feel it’s too dry, depending on how large your head of cauliflower was.</li> <li>Add salt and/or garlic salt to taste.</li></ol> <p> Here it is with my favorite homemade meatballs and roasted tomato sauce. It is so tasty! Definitely a little different than real rice, but a great alternative.<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-I5bTikO2rhU/U2QM-xktyRI/AAAAAAAAQDk/StzRWiKTw6U/s1600-h/2014-04-11%25252015.24.25%25255B13%25255D.png"><img title="Easy Homemade Cauliflower Rice & Meatballs" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Easy Homemade Cauliflower Rice & Meatballs" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-b6aTGn3a9o0/U2QM_6AcrOI/AAAAAAAAQDs/-mz4NIWXeZs/2014-04-11%25252015.24.25_thumb%25255B14%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="540" height="596"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-7659043896241662142014-04-28T20:35:00.001-06:002014-04-28T20:37:16.832-06:00Mango Salsa Chicken Salad<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qKVWwKoW_zE/U18P5F96P-I/AAAAAAAAQCw/6JPq5K3k440/s1600-h/Mango%252520Salsa%252520Chicken%252520Salad%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mango Salsa Chicken Salad" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Mango Salsa Chicken Salad" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Wuv5RdAj0XM/U18P6b9FhsI/AAAAAAAAQC4/bcCS6oJLHhI/Mango%252520Salsa%252520Chicken%252520Salad_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> <p></p> <p>This is one of my favorite salad recipes! It is so easy, so healthy, and so fresh. You can add more of what you like or keep it simple. </p> <p>Ingredients, Mango Salsa Chicken Salad</p> <ul> <li>4 chicken breasts</li> <li>2-3 c. mango salsa (we love the kind from Costco)</li> <li>1 head cleaned & chopped romaine lettuce</li> <li>2 bell peppers diced in strips</li> <li>Olive oil</li> <li>Fajita seasoning (I make it homemade with cumin, garlic salt, and chili powder)</li> <li>2 avocados</li> <li>cilantro & lime for garnish</li> <li>optional: cheese, tortilla strips, black beans (when I’m trying to keep it light I leave these off but they are delicious on top too!)</li> <li>Cilantro lime ranch dressing (see recipe <a href="http://shan-made.blogspot.com/2014/04/cilantro-lime-ranch-cafe-rio-copycat.html" target="_blank">here</a>)</li></ul> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lCZh3M9xh9M/U18P7N4B2yI/AAAAAAAAQCQ/9FOItxFRGkM/s1600-h/2014-04-11%25252015.25.47%25255B11%25255D.png"><img title="Mango Salsa Chicken Salad" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Mango Salsa Chicken Salad" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--asDwTb0ZEA/U18P8FBHDdI/AAAAAAAAQCY/9GNYQcGib_8/2014-04-11%25252015.25.47_thumb%25255B12%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="540" height="619"></a></p> <p>Directions:</p> <ol> <li>Start your recipe early in the day by placing your chicken in the crock pot and adding 1-2 cups of mango salsa. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. </li> <li>Once you are ready to assemble the salad, remove the chicken, cut it into chunks or shred it, and then add another 1 c. of mango salsa. Mix salsa in and set aside chicken in a bowl.</li> <li>Once you’ve cleaned and chopped your romaine, set that aside as well.</li> <li>Next, add a small amount of olive oil to a pan and saute the bell peppers with 1-2 tbsp. of fajita seasoning until soft.</li> <li>Dice avocados & limes, and prep any other toppings you’d like.</li> <li>Assemble salad by placing the chopped romaine in a bowl, then the sauteed bell peppers, then mango chicken, then top with avocados, lime juice, cilantro & dressing.</li> <li>Add any additional toppings you’d like! </li></ol> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-79gbd7DT3_Y/U18P9N8uYjI/AAAAAAAAQCg/FeUEzV3oAZQ/s1600-h/2014-04-11%25252015.26.35%25255B15%25255D.png"><img title="Mango Salsa Chicken Salad" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Mango Salsa Chicken Salad" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-b5L_4EhkMAE/U18P-dEZT-I/AAAAAAAAQCo/3vNonc_pZJk/2014-04-11%25252015.26.35_thumb%25255B20%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="614" height="523"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-55110938388856010032014-04-22T14:25:00.001-06:002014-04-22T14:25:30.001-06:00Cranberry Almond Bacon Broccoli Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bY8sGZc6Lfo/U1bQKoGol3I/AAAAAAAAQAI/iE1HPQ012Bs/s1600-h/Broccoli%252520Salad%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Cranberry Almond Bacon Broccoli Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Cranberry Almond Bacon Broccoli Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QIDeWzvqOPI/U1bQLcrBBpI/AAAAAAAAQAQ/OklFFWxuLD8/Broccoli%252520Salad_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="551" height="731"></a> I love broccoli, I love cranberries, I love bacon, and I love almonds. You know what I don’t love about most broccoli salads? The dressing is STRAIGHT UP mayonnaise. All the recipes I look at are basically 95% mayo, 2% sugar, and 3% vinegar. I really just can’t stomach the idea of taking a piece of broccoli and dipping it in some mayo and eating it. So here is my broccoli salad that’s about 30% mayo in the dressing. It’s there as a base but you cannot taste it. I promise! Make this a couple hours before you’re going to eat, and chill in the fridge covered in saran wrap. It is SO delicious. Like it’s supposed to be a side salad but I just end up eating it as my meal.</p> <p>Ingredients, Broccoli Salad:</p> <ul> <li>2 heads broccoli florets (chopped off the stems – I prefer them smaller but make them whatever size you like)</li> <li>1 c. dried cranberries</li> <li>1/2 c. sliced almonds</li> <li>1 package bacon, cooked and diced into small pieces</li> <li>2 handfuls of spinach leaves</li> <ul> <li>Dressing:</li> <ul> <li>1/2 c. plain greek yogurt</li> <li>1/2 c. mayonnaise</li> <li>1/4 c. honey mustard dressing</li> <li>1/4 c. vinegar</li> <li>1/4 c. honey</li> <li>2 tsp. minced garlic</li> <li>juice of 1 lemon</li> <li>1/4 tsp. salt</li></ul></ul></ul> <p><img title="Cranberry Almond Bacon Broccoli Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Cranberry Almond Bacon Broccoli Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SQ6WvC84fNM/U1bQMOuzzTI/AAAAAAAAQAY/tRP5VVJcn1I/2014-04-18%25252023.05.35_thumb%25255B15%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="540" height="609"></p> <p>Combine all salad ingredients and set aside. Whisk dressing ingredients together in a medium sized bowl pour slowly over salad. I like to pour about half, mix up the salad, then pour more as needed. You don’t want it to be over dressed but you want it coated. Cover the bowl with saran wrap, stick in the fridge until you’re ready to eat. You can serve it right when you make it but I think an hour in the fridge makes the flavors really come together. Enjoy! </p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UI0ZIjhUrxQ/U1bQNLejTnI/AAAAAAAAQAg/m998VWCIXm8/s1600-h/2014-04-18%25252023.04.40%25255B5%25255D.png"><img title="Cranberry Almond Bacon Broccoli Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Cranberry Almond Bacon Broccoli Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-90o0L9HXoWc/U1bQN-pSTwI/AAAAAAAAQAo/SxLXvMEevs8/2014-04-18%25252023.04.40_thumb%25255B8%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="540" height="649"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428200642531440323.post-22854304252464189242014-04-19T19:43:00.001-06:002014-04-19T19:43:45.924-06:00Lemon Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xg7HuMBkt2c/U1MmPF_NmeI/AAAAAAAAP-8/ExHGS3YKa38/s1600-h/Lemon%252520Salmon%252520with%252520Creamy%252520Dill%252520Sauce%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img title="Lemon Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Lemon Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JfygR7C9pso/U1MmP8Rb65I/AAAAAAAAP_E/Lw3BUJW1U00/Lemon%252520Salmon%252520with%252520Creamy%252520Dill%252520Sauce_thumb%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="733"></a> </p> <p>A couple weeks ago I made this when friends came over for dinner. I always get nervous making a new dish when guests come but yet I ALWAYS seem to be doing it! Oh man I don’t know why I do that to myself. But this was amazing. Like delicious. I tripled the sauce recipe because it was that good. And then that week I ate it on salads and and sandwiches (like the turkey club I just posted). Please make this salmon next time you need a nice but easy meal. It is delicious. </p> <p>Original recipe from <a href="http://www.cookingclassy.com/2014/03/baked-lemon-salmon-creamy-dill-sauce/" target="_blank">Cooking Classy here</a>. GREAT site!! </p> <p>Ingredients, Lemon Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce:</p> <ul> <li>4 6-oz salmon fillets <li>2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil <li>1 1/2 tsp lemon zest <li>2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice <li> <p>Salt and freshly ground black pepper </p> <p>Creamy Dill Sauce (I tripled this! But do what you think is best ;)</p></li> <ul> <li>1/3 cup fat free plain Greek Yogurt <li>3 Tbsp mayonnaise (full fat) <li>1 clove garlic, finely minced (I used minced garlic in olive oil) <li>1 Tbsp chopped fresh dill (They were out of fresh dill at my grocery store so I used dried and chopped it up and it was still so good) <li>2 - 3 tsp milk <li>1/2 tsp honey <li>Salt and freshly ground black pepper</li></ul></ul> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-J4LCLx1TbSg/U1MmQ7PzODI/AAAAAAAAP_M/f8jbnqy8KFo/s1600-h/2014-04-18%25252012.25.56%25255B28%25255D.png"><img title="Lemon Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Lemon Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Fs4YM_N9vyY/U1MmSAYf6lI/AAAAAAAAP_U/Dsrfw0x3Gao/2014-04-18%25252012.25.56_thumb%25255B29%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="600" height="536"></a></p> <ul> <li>Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest and lemon juice. Grease a 13 by 9-inch baking dish and place salmon fillets in baking dish. Season tops of salmon with salt and pepper then rotate to opposite side. Drizzle tops evenly with lemon mixture and gently rub over salmon, then season tops with salt and pepper. Let rest at room temperature 10 minutes, then bake in preheated oven 12 - 16 minutes, or until salmon has cooked through (cook time will vary based on thickness of fillets and how well done you liked them). Serve warm topped with Creamy Dill Sauce. <li>For the sauce: </li> <ul> <li>In a bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic, dill, honey, and enough milk to reach desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Store in refrigerator, allow to rest at room temperature 20 minutes before serving (just so it's not ice cold over warm salmon). </li></ul></ul> <p>Recipe Source: <a href="http://www.cookingclassy.com/" target="_blank">Cooking Classy</a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sXq1QnT6xsY/U1MmSw00pfI/AAAAAAAAP_c/2IJ5FnQ8qHA/s1600-h/2014-04-18%25252012.25.32%25255B14%25255D.png"><img title="Lemon Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Lemon Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CTF3lCPxvmU/U1MmT3bageI/AAAAAAAAP_k/Pgvtb_0s7E0/2014-04-18%25252012.25.32_thumb%25255B16%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="540" height="648"></a></p> Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11095418173883109757noreply@blogger.com0