Rocky Road Bark

Melt chocolate gently for best results. If chocolate gets too hot, it may not set properly and will develop "bloom" (white streaks) on the surface when stored. Stirring chopped chocolate in a pan or bowl over hot, not simmering, water maintains an even, low temperature, resulting in glossy, firmly set chocolate. The setting time for the bark varies greatly according to the temperature of your home. Although we preferred the texture of the bark set at room temperature, you can set bark in the refrigerator if necessary.


Yield: Makes about 3 pounds


Preparation
1. Line a 12- by 15-inch baking sheet with cooking parchment; butter parchment. Chop

2 pounds milk chocolate and place with 1 tablespoon solid vegetable shortening in a heatproof bowl that will nest in a 3- to 4-quart pan. Heat 1 inch of water in the pan just until steaming. Remove from heat and place bowl over water (bowl shouldn't touch water). Stir occasionally just until mixture is melted and smooth. Remove bowl from over pan.

2. Stir in 2 cups each mini marshmallows and coarsely chopped walnuts. Using a flexible spatula, scrape mixture onto buttered parchment and spread 3/8 to 1/2 inch thick (mixture should almost cover sheet). Sprinkle with 1 more cup each marshmallows and walnuts; gently press into chocolate.

3. Let stand at cool room temperature until completely firm, 4 to 6 hours, or overnight. Break or cut bark into pieces. Store airtight in a cool place up to 2 weeks.

http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=10000000633408

Hot Chocolate on a Stick

Hot Chocolate on a Stick
Yield: 10 cubes of hot chocolate (ice-cube-tray size)
(use 1 oz. hot chocolate on a stick per every 1 cup milk or cream)

Equipment:
Ziplock bags or piping bags
A double boiler or pan with a glass bowl that can sit over the simmering water
Some kind of chocolate mold, ice trays work great
Stir sticks or a bag of wooden craft sticks like I used (like these, available at any craft store)

Ingredients:
8 oz. chocolate (see note above), bittersweet, semisweet, milk, and white chocolate all work
1/4 cup cocoa, sifted
1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar, sifted
pinch of salt

I also have a few other special ingredients I like to add. If you take me out to lunch sometime maybe I’ll share.

6 cups milk and 2 cups heavy cream if you plan to enjoy these right away

Method
(read a whole post about melting chocolate, including how to melt in the microwave, here)


1.If your chocolate is in a block, chop it into even-sized meltable pieces. Simmer a couple inches of water in a pan, then turn down the heat so the water is below a simmer. I like to remove the pan from the heat, but if you keep it on, keep that water below a simmer. Place glass or stainless steel bowl over the top to make a double boiler. If the bowl touches the water it’s alright, as long as your water is mildly warm, not hot. Dump chocolate into the clean, dry bowl and stir as the chocolate melts. (If you are patient and let those chunks melt slowly, keeping them from getting over 90 degrees F or 88 degrees F for milk and white chocolate, the chocolate will stay “in temper” and will still be nice and pretty when it cools.)

2.Once the chocolate is 2/3 melted, with just some pieces of the chocolate unmelted, remove the bowl from the pan, dry the bottom with a towel and continue stirring until chocolate is fully melted. This is just one more step to keep the chocolate from getting too hot.

3.Add cocoa, sugar, and salt and continue to stir until combined. The chocolate will be thicker, as thick as frosting, but stir on. If it looks and feels grainy it’s possible you’ve accidentally gotten a drop of water in the mixture. If it has gotten water in it and has seized up, it will still taste alright, it just won’t be as pretty or smooth or melt quite as fast.

4.Scoop chocolate into a ziplock bag and clip off the corner.

5.Pipe the chocolate into your chocolate mold, tapping the mold on the counter to make sure all the chocolate settles into the mold. Add a stir stick and you’re done. The stir stick should stay upright without any trouble. If the chocolate bursts through the bag in places you don’t want it to, just put the whole thing in another bag. If the chocolate starts to get too thick to squeeze, just put the whole thing in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 30 seconds or so at half power.

6.Let the chocolate cool either at room temperature or in the fridge if you’re in a hurry. I find the chocolate pops out of the mold nicely if it’s been in the fridge. It’s okay to cool chocolate in the fridge, just don’t store it there, because chocolate soaks up the odors of other foods pretty quickly.

7.If you don’t like the look of the chocolate once it is removed from the mold, you can dip the cubes into a new batch of plain melted chocolate for a shinier finish (again, try to keep chocolate from heating over 90 degrees, or use candy melts, which don’t need to be in temper, they will stay shiny and pretty even if you go above 90 degrees). This also lets you add sprinkles or crushed candy or just lets you dip in fun patterns. I like dipping at an angle into a different color of chocolate.

8.In order to enjoy these, heat up any combo of milk, water, half and half, or cream. I like 6 cups milk with 2 cups heavy cream. One ounce of chocolate on a stick should be melted into one cup milk or cream. So a standard ice cube-tray block, which is 3/4 an ounce, should be melted into a mug with 3/4 cup milk or cream in it.

Troubleshooting: A few of you have had trouble with your chocolate seizing. Tiffany provided this great note to help out (thanks, Tiffany!), “if the chocolate begins to seize (since for some reason, both of my batches seized, I’m thinking it’s the humidity in the air where I am) you do not have to throw it out. Just put the bowl back over the hot water and add a little bit of vegetable oil (I used somewhere between a tsp and a tbsp) after stirring over a little heat, the chocolate will get smooth again. Also good to note, chocolate can seize if you add any cold ingredients.”

How to store it: Dark chocolate will keep in an airtight container for up to a year, milk and white chocolate for several months. Remember, don’t keep it in the fridge because it is really good at absorbing odors.


Variations: Try adding a pinch of your favorite spice. We tried adding a little extra punch by lining the outside with red hots. Very fun. You can also leave out the cocoa and sugar all together and replace it with 8 servings of your favorite packaged hot cocoa. Have you ever had so much fun? I love playing with chocolate.

http://www.giverslog.com/?p=3290

Sweet and Sassy Nuts

Ingredients:
1 large egg white
1/2 cup(s) sugar
1 teaspoon(s) ground cumin
3/4 teaspoon(s) ground chipotle chile pepper
1/2 teaspoon(s) ground cinnamon
3 can(s) (10 to 11 ounces each) salted fancy mixed nuts


Directions

1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease two 15 1/2" by 10 1/2" jelly-roll pans with vegetable oil, or spray with nonstick cooking spray.

2.In large bowl, with wire whisk, beat egg white until foamy. Add sugar, cumin, chipotle pepper, and cinnamon, and beat until well combined. Add nuts to egg-white mixture; with rubber spatula, stir until well coated.

3.Spread nut mixture evenly in prepared jelly-roll pans. Bake on 2 oven racks 20 to 25 minutes or until coating on nuts is golden-brown and dry, stirring once and rotating pans between upper and lower racks halfway through baking for even browning.

4.Cool nuts completely in pans on wire racks, at least 1 hour. With hands, break apart any large clusters of nuts when cool. Store cooled nuts in tightly sealed containers at room temperature up to 2 weeks.

http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/recipefinder/sweet-sassy-nuts-holiday-gifts

Thanksgiving Early!

Check out 24 make ahead recipes for Thanksgiving from Delish! Go here to indulge in the goodness!

Tuna Salad

Ingredients:
2 can(s) (5 ounces each) chunk light tuna in water, drained
2 medium stalks celery, chopped
1 medium carrot, shredded, about 1/2 cup
1/2 medium (4- to 6-ounce) red pepper, chopped
1/4 cup(s) light mayonnaise
3 tablespoon(s) nonfat plain yogurt
1 tablespoon(s) fresh lemon juice
Pepper


Directions

1.In medium bowl, combine tuna, celery, carrot, red pepper, mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Makes about 2 1/2 cups.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/healthy-tuna-salad-recipe

Orange and Avocado Salad

Ingredients:
8 cup(s) mixed salad greens
1 cup(s) orange segments
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup(s) slivered red onion
1/2 cup(s) Cilantro-Lime Vinaigrette


Directions

1.Toss greens, orange segments, avocado and onion in a salad bowl. Toss with Cilantro-Lime Vinaigrette.

Cilantro-Lime Vinaigrette
1 cup(s) (packed) cilantro
1/2 cup(s) extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup(s) lime juice
1/4 cup(s) orange juice
1/2 teaspoon(s) salt
1/2 teaspoon(s) pepper
1 pinch(s) minced garlic


Directions

1.Puree cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, salt, pepper and garlic in a blender or food processor until smooth.

Herb Roasted Turkey

Ingredients:
1 (10-to-12 pound turkey) turkey
1/4 cup(s) fresh herbs, plus 20 whole sprigs, such as thyme, rosemary, sage, oregano and/or marjoram, divided
2 tablespoon(s) canola oil
1 teaspoon(s) salt
1 teaspoon(s) freshly ground pepper
Aromatics: , onion, apple, lemon and/or orange, cut into 2-inch pieces (1 1/2 cups)
3 cup(s) water, plus more as needed

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Directions

1.Position a rack in the lower third of the oven; preheat to 475°F.

2.Remove giblets and neck from turkey cavities and reserve for making gravy. Place the turkey, breast-side up, on a rack in a large roasting pan; pat dry with paper towels. Mix minced herbs, oil, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey, under the skin and onto the breast meat. Place aromatics and 10 of the herb sprigs in the cavity. Tuck the wing tips under the turkey. Tie the legs together with kitchen string. Add 3 cups water and the remaining 10 herb sprigs to the pan.

3.Roast the turkey until the skin is golden brown, 45 minutes. Remove the turkey from the oven. If using a remote digital thermometer, insert it into the deepest part of the thigh, close to the joint. Cover the breast with a double layer of foil, cutting as necessary to conform to the breast. Reduce oven temperature to 350° and continue roasting for 1 1/4 to 1 3/4 hours more. If the pan dries out, tilt the turkey to let juices run out of the cavity into the pan and add 1 cup water. The turkey is done when the thermometer (or an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh without touching bone) registers 165°F.

4.Transfer the turkey to a serving platter and cover with foil. (If you're making Herbed Pan Gravy, start here.) Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes. Remove string and carve.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/herb-roasted-turkey-recipe-8906

Candy Turkeys

Check out these awesome candy turkeys from Delish and MSN! Jump here to check them out!

Pumpkin!

In honor of my little pumpkin and Fall here are some great links to pumpkin recipes! Enjoy!

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins
Pumpkin Pancakes
Thai Pumpkin Soup
Vegetarian Four Cheese Lasagna
Spinach Stuffed Pumpkins
Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin Chocolate Cheesecake Bars
Pumpkin Bean Soup
Double Decker Pumpkin Bread
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Spread

Creamy Banana-Cado Baby Food

Peel and de-pit a ripe avocado
Cut “meat” out and mash with a fork
Peel and mash 1 banana

Place in a blender or food processor and puree until desired texture is achieved. Avocados and Bananas do not need to be cooked.

http://www.wholesomebabyfood.com/avocadobabyfoodrecipes.html

Banana Crumb Muffins

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 bananas, mashed
3/4 cup white sugar
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/3 cup butter, melted
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter

Directions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease 10 muffin cups, or line with muffin papers.

In a large bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat together bananas, sugar, egg and melted butter. Stir the banana mixture into the flour mixture just until moistened. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups.
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, 2 tablespoons flour and cinnamon. Cut in 1 tablespoon butter until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. Sprinkle topping over muffins.

Bake in preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of a muffin comes out clean.

BLT Burgers

1/4 cup(s) ketchup
1/4 cup(s) light mayonnaise
1 tablespoon(s) yellow mustard
1 1/4 pound(s) ground beef chuck
8 slice(s) bacon
4 sesame-seed buns, split and toasted
Sliced sweet onion, tomato, and romaine lettuce leaves

Directions
Prepare outdoor grill for direct grilling over medium heat.
In bowl, stir ketchup, mayonnaise, and mustard until blended. Set sauce aside. Makes about 1/2 cup.

Shape ground beef into four 3/4-inch-thick burgers. Wrap each burger with 2 strips bacon, perpendicular to each other.
Place burgers on hot grill rack; cook 10 to 12 minutes for medium or until desired doneness, turning over once.

During last 2 minutes of cooking burgers, place rolls, cut sides down, on grill rack and heat until lightly toasted. Serve burgers on rolls with onion, tomato, lettuce, and ketchup sauce.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/blt-burgers-ghk0606

Dig-Deep Layered Summer Salad

2 cup(s) hard wheat berries (pearl barley can be substituted)
2 quart(s) cold water
6 tablespoon(s) freshly squeezed lemon juice, about 2 lemons
1/4 cup(s) white-wine vinegar
4 teaspoon(s) Dijon mustard
1 1/2 teaspoon(s) coarse salt
1/4 teaspoon(s) freshly ground pepper
1 tablespoon(s) sugar
1/2 teaspoon(s) celery seed
1 cup(s) extra-virgin olive oil
2 1/4 cup(s) celery, strings removed, sliced thinly on the diagonal
1 1/2 cup(s) dried tart cherries
10 ounce(s) Maytag blue cheese, crumbled (2 1/3 cups)
1 small head green cabbage, thinly shredded (about 5 cups)
5 large carrots, peeled and grated (about 5 cups)

Directions
Place wheat berries in a small stockpot over high heat, and add 2 quarts water. Cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, and simmer the berries until tender, about 40 minutes. Drain in a colander, and transfer to a large glass serving bowl.

Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, salt, pepper, sugar, and celery seed. In a slow, steady stream, whisk in olive oil until completely combined. Drizzle 2 tablespoons dressing over the wheat berries.
Arrange celery slices over wheat berries, and drizzle with 2 tablespoons dressing. Cover celery with cherries, and drizzle with 2 tablespoons dressing.
Crumble half the blue cheese over the top of the cherries, and drizzle with 2 tablespoons dressing.

In a medium bowl, toss together shredded cabbage and 3 tablespoons dressing; layer cabbage over the blue cheese. Layer carrots over cabbage, and drizzle with 2 tablespoons dressing. Crumble the remaining blue cheese over the carrots, and drizzle with the remaining dressing. Cover the salad, and transfer to the refrigerator for 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop. Remove the salad from the refrigerator, and serve at room temperature.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/dig-deep-layered-summer-salad-mslo0510-recipe

PF Changs: Chang's Spicy Chicken

Sauce

2 teaspoons vegetable oil

2 tablespoons chopped garlic (3 to 4 cloves)

3 tablespoons chopped green onions (about 3 onions)

1 cup pineapple juice

2 tablespoons chili sauce

2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar

4 teaspoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon soy sauce

2 tablespoons water

1/2 teaspoon cornstarch

1 cup vegetable oil

2 chicken breast fillets

1/3 cup cornstarch

Preparation
1. Make the sauce by heating 2 teaspoons vegetable oil in medium saucepan. Sauté the garlic and onion in the oil for just a few seconds, not allowing the ingredients to burn, then quickly add the pineapple juice, followed by chili sauce, vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce.

2. Dissolve cornstarch in 2 tablespoons water and add it to the other ingredients in the saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil and continue to simmer on medium/high heat for 3 to 5 minutes or until thick and syrupy.

3. Heat 1 cup vegetable oil in a wok or a medium saucepan over medium heat.

4. While oil heats up, chop chicken breast fillets into bite-size pieces. In a medium bowl, toss chicken pieces with cornstarch until well-dusted.

5. Sauté coated chicken in the hot oil, stirring occasionally, until light brown. Remove chicken to a rack or paper towels to drain for a moment. Pour chicken into a medium bowl, add sauce and toss well to coat chicken. Serve immediately with rice on the side.

Strawberry-Chocolate Ice Cream

Ingredients

1 1/2 teaspoon(s) unflavored gelatin
1 tablespoon(s) water
3 cup(s) low-fat milk, divided
3 large egg yolks
1 can(s) (14-ounce) nonfat sweetened condensed milk
1 vanilla bean
3/4 cup(s) fresh or frozen chopped strawberries
1/4 cup(s) cocoa nibs (see Note) or mini chocolate chips


Directions

1.Sprinkle gelatin over water in a small bowl; let stand, stirring once or twice, while you make the base for the ice cream.

2.Pour 1 1/2 cups milk into a large saucepan. Cut vanilla bean in half lengthwise; scrape the seeds into the milk and add the pod.

3.Heat the milk mixture over medium heat until steaming. Whisk egg yolks and condensed milk in a medium bowl. Gradually pour in the hot milk, whisking until blended. Return the mixture to the pan and cook over medium heat, stirring with a wooden spoon, until the back of the spoon is lightly coated, 3 to 5 minutes. Do not bring to a boil or the custard will curdle.

4.Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean large bowl. Add the softened gelatin and whisk until melted. Whisk in the remaining 1 1/2 cups milk. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours.

5.Whisk the ice cream mixture and pour into the canister of an ice cream maker. Freeze according to manufacturer's directions. During the last 5 minutes of freezing, add strawberries and cocoa nibs (or chocolate chips) to the ice cream maker. If necessary, place the ice cream in the freezer to firm up before serving.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/strawberry-chocolate-ice-cream-recipe-ew0510

Blueberry Cupcakes

Ingredients

Cupcakes

1 large Yukon Gold potato, peeled and cut into small chunks
3/4 cup(s) whole-wheat pastry flour (see Note)
3/4 cup(s) cake flour
1 1/2 teaspoon(s) baking powder
1/2 teaspoon(s) baking soda
1/2 teaspoon(s) salt
3/4 cup(s) granulated sugar
1/4 cup(s) canola oil
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon(s) coconut extract or vanilla extract
1/2 cup(s) nonfat buttermilk (see Tip)
1 cup(s) blueberries, fresh or frozen (thawed and drained), plus fresh blueberries for garnish

Frosting

3/4 cup(s) granulated sugar
3 tablespoon(s) water
4 teaspoon(s) dried egg whites (see Note), reconstituted according to package directions (equivalent to 2 egg whites)
1/4 teaspoon(s) cream of tartar
1 pinch(s) salt
2 tablespoon(s) blueberry preserves or jam
1/4 teaspoon(s) coconut extract or vanilla extract


Directions

1.To prepare cupcakes: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 12 (1/2-cup) muffin cups with paper liners.

2.Place potato in a saucepan, add water to cover, and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and mash until very smooth. Measure out 3/4 cup and let cool slightly. (You may have some potato left over.)

3.Whisk whole-wheat flour, cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl.

4.Beat granulated sugar and oil in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed until combined. Beat in egg, 1/2 teaspoon extract, and the 3/4 cup mashed potatoes until combined. With the mixer on low, alternately mix in the dry ingredients and buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients and scraping the sides of the bowl as needed, until just combined. Fold in 1 cup blueberries. Divide the batter among the prepared cups (they will be full).

5.Bake the cupcakes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, 22 to 24 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely.

6.To prepare frosting: Once the cupcakes are cool, bring 2 inches of water to a simmer in the bottom of a double boiler (see Tip). Combine 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 3 tablespoons water in the top of the double boiler. Place over the simmering water and heat, stirring, until the sugar is melted, 2 to 3 minutes. Start beating the mixture with an electric mixer on high speed; add reconstituted egg whites, cream of tartar, and a pinch of salt. Continue beating until the mixture looks like a glossy, thick frosting, 5 to 7 minutes. Off the heat, beat for 1 minute more to cool. Add 2 tablespoons (or more, depending on desired color) blueberry preserves (or jam) and 1/4 teaspoon extract and beat on low just to combine. Spread or pipe the frosting on the cooled cupcakes and decorate with fresh blueberries on top, if desired.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/blueberry-cupcakes-recipe-ew0510

Enchilada Meatloaf

Ingredients

1 egg, lightly beaten
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup bottled salsa
2 Tbsp. chili powder
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp. salt
1 lb. ground beef
1 8.5 oz. pkg. corn muffin mix
2 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, sliced
Bottled salsa (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350F. In a large mixing bowl combine egg, onion, 1/4 cup salsa, the chili powder, garlic, and salt; add ground beef and mix well. Shape into a ball and place in a 9-inch pie plate. Flatten meat mixture to a 6-inch circle; set aside.

Prepare corn muffin mix according to package directions. Spread corn muffin batter over meat mixture in pie plate. Bake about 50 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the meat loaf registers 160F. Remove from oven. Halve cheese slices and arrange on top of the corn muffin mixture. Cover loosely and let stand 10 minutes before serving. If desired, serve with additional salsa. Makes 6 servings

Fettuccine with Cherry Tomatoes

Ingredients

1 9-ounce package refrigerated fettuccine, cut into thirds
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 6- to 9-ounce package refrigerated or frozen Italian-flavor or grilled-cooked chicken breast strips, thawed if frozen
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup pitted ripe olives, halved
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

In a Dutch oven, cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and return to pan.
Add cheese, oil, and chicken. Return to low heat; toss to coat and heat through. Remove from heat. Add tomatoes and olives. Season with salt and pepper to taste and toss again. Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings.

Adobo Chicken Wrap

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon(s) mayonnaise
1 teaspoon(s) finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
1 (8-inch) whole-wheat tortilla
1 slice(s) reduced-fat sharp Cheddar cheese slice, cut in half
1 lettuce leaf
2 tablespoon(s) pico de gallo
6 slice(s) Oscar Mayer® Deli Fresh Shaved Rotisserie Seasoned Chicken


Directions

1.Mix dressing with peppers; spread onto tortilla.

2.Top with remaining ingredients; roll up.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/adobo-chicken-wrap-recipe

Caesar Pleaser

Ingredients:
1/2 cup(s) torn romaine lettuce
1 slice(s) (thin) red onion, separated into rings
1 tablespoon(s) shredded Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon(s) light classic Caesar dressing
1 ciabatta roll, partially split
2 ounce(s) (1/3 of 6-ounce package) Oscar Mayer® Deli Fresh Oven Roasted Chicken Breast Cuts
2 slice(s) tomato
Roasted red pepper strips, optional, for filling


Directions

1.Toss lettuce with onions, cheese, and dressing.

2.Fill roll with lettuce mixture, chicken, and tomatoes.

3.Optional: Add roasted red pepper strips to the sandwich filling

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/caesar-pleaser-recipe

Spiced Apple Pancake

Ingredients:
2 tablespoon(s) butter or margarine
2 tablespoon(s) water
1/2 cup(s) sugar
2 tablespoon(s) sugar
1 1/2 pound(s) (3 to 4 medium) Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 8 wedges
3 large eggs
3/4 cup(s) milk
3/4 cup(s) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon(s) pumpkin pie spice or 1⁄2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon(s) salt


Directions

1.Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. In 12-inch cast-iron skillet, heat butter, water, and 1/2 cup sugar over medium-high heat to boiling. Add apple wedges; cook 12 to 15 minutes or until apples are golden and sugar mixture begins to caramelize, stirring occasionally.

2.Meanwhile, in blender or food processor with knife blade attached, place eggs, milk, flour, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and remaining 2 tablespoons sugar, adding liquid ingredients to blender first. Blend until batter is smooth.

3.When apple mixture in skillet is deep golden, pour batter over apples. Place skillet in oven; bake 15 to 17 minutes or until puffed and lightly browned. Serve immediately.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/spiced-apple-pancake-ghk1007

Syrupy Banana-Nut Overnight French Toast

Ingredients:
6 tablespoon(s) butter or margarine
1 1/2 cup(s) packed brown sugar
5 large ripe bananas, cut diagonally into 1/2-inch-thick slices
1 (12-ounce) long loaf French or Italian bread, cut crosswise into 1-inch-thick slices
6 large eggs
2 cup(s) milk
2 teaspoon(s) vanilla extract
1 teaspoon(s) ground cinnamon
1/2 cup(s) sliced almonds or coarsely chopped walnuts or pecans


Directions

1.In microwave-safe small bowl, heat butter in microwave oven on High 1 minute or until melted. Stir sugar into butter until moistened. With fingertips, press sugar mixture onto bottom of 13-inch by 9-inch glass baking dish. (It's okay if mixture does not cover bottom.) Spread fresh or dried fruit over sugar mixture; top with bread slices, cut sides down.

2.In medium bowl, with whisk, beat eggs; whisk in milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. Slowly pour milk mixture over bread; press bread down to absorb egg mixture. Sprinkle with nuts. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.

3.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Remove plastic wrap from baking dish. Bake, uncovered, 45 to 50 minutes or until bread is golden brown and knife inserted in center comes out clean. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/syrupy-banana-nut-overnight-french-toast-1006

Free Ice Cream!

Go to Baskin Robbins tonight for 31 cent scoop night! I believe that it is up to three scoops at the 31 cent price! Enjoy! Check out an article on the deal here.

Speedy Pesto Wraps

Ingredients

1/4 cup reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup reduced-fat pesto sauce
4 8- to 10-inch flavored, plain flour, or whole wheat tortillas
8-ounces deli shaved or sliced smoked turkey breast
2 cups assorted fresh sprouts (such as radish, sunflower, or broccoli sprouts)* or shredded lettuce
1/2 cup chopped tomato or ripe avocado

directions

In a small bowl, stir together the cream cheese and pesto until well mixed. Spread the mixture over one side of each tortilla. Arrange turkey and sprouts, if using, over each tortilla. Top with tomato. Roll up. Makes 4 servings.

*Note: Because fresh sprouts may contain bacteria that could cause illness, you may want to leave them off your sandwich. If you grow your own sprouts, be sure to keep them refrigerated and wash them under cold running water for at least 20 seconds before using.

http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/food/recipes/speedy-pesto-wraps-537361/;_ylt=AsPZ.JGf69JJQ8Rbi7sHTkZfbqU5

Sweet Potatoes with Warm Black Bean Salad

For a satisfying last-minute supper, it’s hard to beat a sweet potato zapped in the microwave. The fragrant filling of beans and tomatoes adds protein. Be sure to eat the skin, which is full of fiber, as well.

4 medium sweet potatoes
1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed
2 medium tomatoes, diced
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1. Prick sweet potatoes with a fork in several places. Microwave on High until tender all the way to the center, 12 to 15 minutes. (Alternatively, place in a baking dish and bake at 425ºF until tender all the way to the center, about 1 hour.)

2. Meanwhile, in a medium microwaveable bowl, combine beans, tomatoes, oil, cumin, coriander and salt; microwave on High until just heated through, 2 to 3 minutes. (Alternatively, heat in a small saucepan over medium heat.)

3. When just cool enough to handle, slash each sweet potato lengthwise, press open to make a well in the center and spoon the bean mixture into the well. Top each with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro.

Makes 4 servings.

http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/food/could-you-quit-meat-once-a-week-for-a-year-1278724/

No-Bake Chocolate Fudge Tart

Ingredients
3/4 cup(s) half-and-half or light cream
3 tablespoon(s) sugar
6 ounce(s) semisweet chocolate, chopped
2 ounce(s) unsweetened chocolate, chopped
1 teaspoon(s) vanilla extract
1 (6-ounce) ready-to-use chocolate cookie piecrust
1/2 cup(s) heavy or whipping cream
Chocolate shavings, for garnish


Directions

1.In microwave-safe medium bowl, combine half-and-half and 2 tablespoons sugar. Heat mixture in microwave oven on High 1 1/2 minutes or until very hot. Add chocolates and vanilla and stir until chocolates melt. Pour mixture into piecrust. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour or up to 3 days.

2.To serve, in small bowl, with mixer at medium speed, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add remaining 1 tablespoon sugar; beat until stiff peaks form. With spatula, spread whipped cream over chocolate filling. Garnish with chocolate shavings.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/no-bake-chocolate-fudge-tart-2442

PB&J Ice Cream Sandwiches

Ingredients
1 pint(s) regular or lowfat vanilla ice cream
1/2 can(s) peanut butter (creamy or crunchy— you choose)
9 full-size graham crackers


Directions

1.Spoon the ice cream into the mixing bowl. Soften it by leaving the ice cream out on the counter for 10 minutes.

2.Mix the peanut butter into the ice cream with the rubber spatula.

3.Line the baking dish with waxed paper and spread the peanut butter- ice cream mixture on the waxed paper. Cover the mixture with another sheet of waxed paper, and then put the mixture in the freezer for 20 to 45 minutes, or until solid.

4.Turn the frozen mixture out onto the cutting board, and peel off the waxed paper. Use the chef’s knife to cut the mixture into nine squares the same size as the graham crackers you’re using.

5.With the table knife, spread the jam or jelly on a graham cracker, add a square of peanut butter-ice cream mixture, and top with another graham cracker. Put each finished sandwich in the freezer immediately, so it doesn’t melt before you’ve made them all. You can also wrap each PB&J Ice Cream Sandwich in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag in the freezer.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/pb-j-ice-cream-sandwiches-snacks-recipes

We Won!!!

I'm fresh off of my charity cooking competition victory!! The plans to defend our title next year are already in the works! We beat teams that have been competing since the beginning in our first year!! Wooohoooo! Here is the recipe for our award winning dessert!

Almond Coffee Toffee Mocha Squares

Ingredients:
Brownies
1 (19 1/2 ounce) box Pillsbury Brownie Classics Fudge Toffee pieces or traditional Fudge Brownie mix
1 teaspoon instant Coffee granules or instant Coffee crystals
1/2 cup Butter, melted
1/4 cup Water
2 Eggs
1/2 cup finely chopped Chocolate-covered english Toffee Bars (two 1.4-oz bars)
1/2 cup Slivered Almonds, Almonds toasted*

Topping
4 ounces Cream Cheese, softened
1/3 cup packed Brown Sugar
1 teaspoon instant Coffee granules or instant Coffee crystals
1 1/2 cups Whipping Cream
1 teaspoon Vanilla
1 cup chopped Toffee Pieces, Candy Bar bars (four 1.4 oz)
1/2 cup Slivered Almonds, toasted*

Directions:

To toast chopped almonds, spread on cookie sheet: bake at 325F for 6-8 minutes, stirring once, until light golden brown.*. Turn oven to 350°F. Grease bottom only of 13x9-inch pan with cooking spray. In large bowl, beat brownie mix, 1 teaspoon instant coffee, butter water and eggs with electric mixer on low speed for 1 minute. Gently fold in 1/2 cup chopped candy bars and 1/2 cup almonds. Spread batter in greased pan. Bake at 350F for 24-28 minutes or until edges are firm. Do not overbake. Cool completely in pan on wire rack, about 1 hour. In medium bowl, beat cream cheese, brown sugar and 1 teaspoon instant coffee with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Increse speed to high; beat in cream and vanilla until soft peaks form. Spread cream cheese mixture over cooled brownies. Sprinkle 1 cup chopped candy bars and 1/2 cup almonds over top. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving. Cut into bars. Store in refrigerator.

Lemon Marshmallow Cake

Ingredients:

Cake
2 1/2 cup(s) cake flour
2 teaspoon(s) baking powder
1/2 teaspoon(s) baking soda
1/2 teaspoon(s) salt
3/4 cup(s) (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 cup(s) granulated sugar
1 tablespoon(s) grated lemon zest
1 large egg
3 large egg whites
1 teaspoon(s) vanilla extract
1 1/4 cup(s) buttermilk

Lemon Syrup
1/2 cup(s) sugar
1/4 cup(s) water
1/2 cup(s) fresh lemon juice

Fillings
1 cup(s) heavy cream
2 tablespoon(s) confectioners' sugar
2/3 cup(s) Lemon Curd
1/2 cup(s) seedless raspberry preserves or jam, stirred to loosen

Marshmallow Topping
4 large egg whites, at room temperature
1 cup(s) granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon(s) cream of tartar
1 teaspoon(s) vanilla extract


Directions

1.Cake: Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat two 8x2-inch round cake pans with baking spray; line bottoms of pans with parchment or waxed paper.

2.Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl until blended. Beat butter, sugar, and lemon zest in a mixer bowl with paddle attachment on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes; beat in egg, then egg whites and vanilla, until blended. With mixer on low, alternately beat in flour mixture and buttermilk until incorporated. Increase mixer speed to medium and continue to beat batter 2 minutes, until very smooth. Divide batter between pans and spread tops until level and smooth.

3.Bake 33 to 35 minutes, until pick inserted in centers comes out clean. Cool cakes in pans on a wire rack 5 minutes. Loosen edges of cakes with a knife and unmold onto rack; remove paper, invert cakes and cool completely on racks.

4.Lemon syrup: While cakes are baking, combine sugar and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Simmer, stirring, until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat; stir in lemon juice.

5.Filling: Beat cream and confectioners' sugar in mixer bowl with whisk attachment until stiff, with billowy peaks forming when beaters are lifted. Place Lemon Curd in a medium bowl and stir 1/2 cup of the whipped cream into it to loosen; then fold in remaining whipped cream until combined.

6.To assemble: Cut each cake layer in half horizontally using a serrated knife. Place one layer on a cake plate protected by strips of waxed paper; brush all over with lemon syrup, then spread one third of the jam (about 2 1/2 tablespoon) over to cover. Top with one third of the lemon cream and gently spread over jam layer. Top with another cake layer, brush with lemon syrup, then spread with preserves and more lemon cream. Repeat with the third layer. Brush the cut side of the last cake layer with lemon syrup and place cut side down on top of cake. Brush the top and sides of cake with any remaining syrup. (At this point the cake can be covered and refrigerated up to 1 day ahead before finishing with marshmallow topping.)

7.Marshmallow topping: Place egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar in a large metal bowl. Set over a saucepan of simmering water. Whisk constantly until sugar is dissolved and whites are very warm to the touch, about 4 minutes. Transfer mixture to bowl of stand mixer. Beat 5 to 7 minutes, starting on low and gradually increasing to high until stiff, glossy peaks form. Beat in vanilla. Spread over top and sides of cake with a metal spatula in decorative swirls. Using a handheld butane crème brûlée torch, lightly brown the marshmallow topping. Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 2 days.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/lemon-marshmallow-cake-recipe-rbk0410

Butterscotch Pie

Ingredients:
1/2 cup(s) unsalted butter
1 1/4 cup(s) light brown sugar
1/4 cup(s) cornstarch
3 tablespoon(s) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon(s) salt
1 1/2 cup(s) heavy cream, cold
1/2 cup(s) milk
4 egg yolks
1 teaspoon(s) vanilla extract
1 Baked Pie Shell
1 teaspoon(s) honey
2 tablespoon(s) confectioners' sugar


Directions

1.Make the filling. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it begins to brown. Stir in the brown sugar. Add 1 1/2 cups hot water and whisk until the mixture comes to a boil. Continue to cook for 2 more minutes, remove from heat, and set aside. Combine the cornstarch, flour, and salt in a small bowl. Whisk in 1/2 cup each of heavy cream and milk until smooth and pour into the butter mixture. Whisk continuously, over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens — about 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Lightly beat the egg yolks together in a medium bowl. Stream in 1/2 cup of the hot mixture while whisking the egg yolks. Whisk the egg mixture with the milk mixture in the saucepan over medium heat for 1 minute. Remove from heat, strain through a fine sieve, and stir in the vanilla. Pour into the Baked Pie Shell, and chill until set.

2.Make the cream topping. Beat the remaining cup of heavy cream with the honey and confectioners' sugar to stiff peaks. Spread over the cooled pie and chill until ready to serve.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/butterscotch-pie-3891

New England Clam Chowder

Ingredients:
1 cup(s) water
18 large (about 4 pounds) littleneck clams, scrubbed
3 slice(s) bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
1 tablespoon(s) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon(s) ground black pepper
1 pound(s) (3 medium) all-purpose potatoes, peeled and chopped
2 cup(s) half-and-half
1 cup(s) milk
3/4 teaspoon(s) salt or to taste


Directions

1.In a 5- to 6-quart saucepot, heat water to boiling over high heat. Add clams; heat to boiling. Reduce heat slightly; cover and simmer until clams open, 5 to 10 minutes. Transfer clams to a bowl as they open. Discard any clams that have not opened.

2.When cool enough to handle, remove clams from their shells and coarsely chop. Discard shells. Strain clam broth through sieve lined with paper towels into measuring cup; if necessary add enough water to equal 2 cups.

3.In same clean saucepot, cook bacon over medium heat until lightly browned. With slotted spoon, remove bacon to paper towels. Add onion to drippings in pot; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in flour and pepper until blended; cook 1 minute. Gradually stir in clam broth until smooth. Add potatoes; heat to boiling. Reduce heat; cover and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

4.Stir in half-and-half, milk, and chopped clams; heat through (do not boil). Stir in bacon. Taste for seasoning; add salt as needed. Makes about 6 cups..

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/new-england-clam-chowder

Lasagna Toss with Spinach and Ricotta

Ingredients:
Salt
1 package(s) (16 ounces) lasagna noodles
1 tablespoon(s) olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 clove(s) garlic, crushed with garlic press
1 can(s) (28 ounces) plum tomatoes in juice
1/4 teaspoon(s) coarsely ground black pepper
1 package(s) (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach
1/2 cup(s) loosely packed fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup(s) grated Parmesan cheese , plus additional for serving
1 cup(s) part-skim ricotta cheese

Directions

1.Heat large saucepot of salted water to boiling over high heat; add lasagna noodles and cook as label directs but increase the cooking time to 12 to 14 minutes.

2.Meanwhile, in nonstick 12-inch skillet, heat oil over medium heat until hot. Add onion and cook 10 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds, stirring.

3.Stir in tomatoes with their juice, pepper, and 3/4 teaspoon salt, breaking up tomatoes with side of spoon; heat to boiling over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cook, uncovered, 8 minutes. Add frozen spinach and cook, covered, 10 minutes or until spinach is tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in basil.

4.Drain noodles; return to saucepot. Add tomato mixture and Parmesan cheese; toss well. Spoon into four pasta bowls; top with dollops of ricotta cheese. Serve with additional Parmesan if you like.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/lasagna-toss-spinach-and-ricotta-2452

Healthy Pancakes

Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups whole-wheat flour
1 cup buttermilk powder, (see Note)
5 tablespoons dried egg whites, such as Just Whites (see Note)
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 tablespoons baking powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup flaxseed meal, (see Note)
1 cup nonfat dry milk
1/2 cup wheat bran, or oat bran
1 1/2 cups nonfat milk
1/4 cup canola oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:
Whisk flour, buttermilk powder, dried egg whites, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl. Stir in flaxseed meal, dry milk and bran. (Makes 6 cups dry mix.)

Combine milk, oil and vanilla in a glass measuring cup.
Place 2 cups pancake mix in a large bowl. (Refrigerate the remaining pancake mix in an airtight container for up to 1 month or freeze for up to 3 months.) Make a well in the center of the pancake mix. Whisk in the milk mixture until just blended; do not overmix. (The batter will seem quite thin, but will thicken up as it stands.) Let stand for 5 minutes.

Coat a nonstick skillet or griddle with cooking spray and place over medium heat. Whisk the batter. Using 1/4 cup batter for each pancake, cook pancakes until the edges are dry and bubbles begin to form, about 2 minutes. Turn over and cook until golden brown, about 2 minutes longer. Adjust heat as necessary for even browning.

Variations Chocolate-Chocolate Chip Pancakes: Fold 1/2 cup cocoa powder and 3 ounces chocolate chips into the batter. Blueberry: Fold 1 cup frozen blueberries into the batter. Banana-Nut: Fold 1 cup thinly sliced bananas and 4 tablespoons finely chopped toasted pecans into the batter.

http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/healthy_pancakes.html

Dark Chocolate Meringue Cookies

Ingredients:
5 ounce(s) bittersweet chocolate (60-75% cacao), divided
2 tablespoon(s) unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process), sifted after measuring if lumpy
3 tablespoon(s) cocoa nibs, (see Shopping Tip), optional
1/3 cup(s) egg whites (about 3 large), at room temperature
1/2 teaspoon(s) cream of tartar
1/2 cup(s) sugar, divided (use 1 1/2 teaspoons less if cocoa nibs are omitted)
1/2 teaspoon(s) vanilla extract

Directions
Position racks in upper and lower thirds of oven; preheat to 350°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper and coat the paper with cooking spray.

Coarsely chop 3 ounces of chocolate and place it in a small microwave-safe bowl. (Alternatively, see "No Microwave?" below.) Microwave on Medium for 1 minute. Stir, then continue microwaving on Medium, stirring every 20 seconds, until mostly melted. Stir until the remaining chocolate melts completely.

Chop the remaining 2 ounces chocolate into pieces the size of mini chocolate chips. Combine in a small bowl with cocoa and cocoa nibs (if using).

Combine egg whites and cream of tartar in a clean medium mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on low for 30 seconds, then at medium speed until soft peaks start to form. Immediately add about 2 tablespoons sugar; beat for 1 minute. Slowly, about a tablespoon at a time, add the remaining sugar, then vanilla, continuing to beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth, opaque, glossy and thickened, about 2 minutes longer. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, raise the speed to high, and beat for 30 seconds more. Lightly fold in the chocolate-cocoa mixture and the melted chocolate just until evenly incorporated and no streaks remain; do not overmix.

Immediately drop the batter by rounded teaspoonfuls about 1 inch apart onto the prepared baking sheets.

Bake the cookies, switching the pans back to front and top to bottom halfway through, until just firm when gently pressed on top but still soft inside, 8 to 12 minutes. Transfer the pans to wire racks and let stand for 1 to 2 minutes. Then slide the paper from the pans to a flat surface and let the cookies cool completely, about 15 minutes. Gently lift the cookies from the parchment paper using a wide-bladed spatula.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/dark-chocolate-meringue-drops-recipe-9225

Chopped Greek Salad

Ingredients:
1/3 cup(s) red-wine vinegar
2 tablespoon(s) extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon(s) chopped fresh dill or oregano or 1 teaspoon dried
1 teaspoon(s) garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon(s) salt
1/4 teaspoon(s) freshly ground pepper
6 cup(s) chopped romaine lettuce
2 1/2 cup(s) (about 12 ounces) chopped cooked chicken (see Tips & Techniques)
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded, and chopped
1/2 cup(s) finely chopped red onion
1/2 cup(s) sliced ripe black olives
1/2 cup(s) crumbled feta cheese

Directions
Whisk vinegar, oil, dill (or oregano), garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add lettuce, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and feta; toss to coat.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/chopped-greek-salad-chicken-recipe-6889

Garden Pasta Salad

Ingredients:
2 cup(s) whole-wheat rotini (6 ounces)
1/3 cup(s) reduced-fat mayonnaise
1/3 cup(s) low-fat plain yogurt
2 tablespoon(s) extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon(s) red-wine vinegar, or lemon juice
1 clove(s) garlic, minced
1/8 teaspoon(s) salt, or to taste
Freshly ground pepper, to taste
1 cup(s) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1 cup(s) diced yellow or red bell pepper (1 small)
1/2 cup(s) chopped scallions (4 scallions)
1/2 cup(s) chopped pitted Kalamata olives
1 cup(s) grated carrot (about 2)
1/3 cup(s) slivered fresh basil

Directions
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook pasta, stirring occasionally, until just tender, 8 to 10 minutes, or according to package directions. Drain and refresh under cold running water.

Whisk mayonnaise, yogurt, oil, vinegar (or lemon juice), garlic, salt and pepper in a large bowl until smooth. Add the pasta and toss to coat. Add tomatoes, bell pepper, carrots, scallions, olives and basil; toss to coat well.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/garden-pasta-salad-recipe-5061

South-of-the-Border Burrito Wraps

Ingredients:
1 cup(s) long-grain brown rice
2 medium carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 medium onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 medium celery stalk, cut into 1-inch pieces
4 clove(s) garlic
1 tablespoon(s) olive oil
1 can(s) (28-ounce) tomatoes in puree
1 pound(s) lean ground beef
1 1/4 teaspoon(s) ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon(s) salt
2 teaspoon(s) chipotle chile puree* or 1 small canned chipotle chile, minced
6 (10-inch ) low-fat flour tortillas, warmed
Sliced iceberg lettuce, chopped cilantro, or chopped green onions, optional

Directions
Prepare brown rice as label directs; keep warm.

Meanwhile, in mini food processor, with sharp side of blade facing up, pulse carrots, onion, celery, and garlic in batches until chopped (do not overprocess or vegetables will be pureed).

Heat oil in deep 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add chopped vegetable mixture and 2 tablespoons water, and cook 15 to 20 minutes, until tender and golden, stirring occasionally. Transfer vegetables to small bowl.

Meanwhile, with kitchen shears, cut tomatoes, in their can, into bite-size pieces.
In same skillet, cook ground beef 10 minutes or until meat is browned and all liquid evaporates, breaking up meat with side of spoon and stirring occasionally. Stir in cumin and salt, and cook 1 minute longer, stirring.

Return vegetable mixture to skillet with meat; stir in tomatoes with their puree and chipotle puree. Heat mixture to boiling over high heat. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 10 minutes or until slightly thickened.

To serve, spoon about 1/2 cup rice down center of each warmed tortilla; top with about 3/4 cup meat mixture. Sprinkle lettuce, cilantro, and green onion on top if you like. Fold sides of tortillas over filling.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/south-border-burrito-wraps-929

Cooking Competition

I'm entered in a charity cooking competition with a couple other teachers from school. We're excited to be competing on April 15 against 3 other teams. We were hand selected and asked to compete so its pretty cool. Here are two of the recipes we're choosing from:

Bruschetta

Ingredients:
1 French baguette, cut into 1/2 inch thick circles
•8 plum tomatoes, diced
•1 cup chopped fresh basil
•1/2 red onion, minced
•freshly ground black pepper
•3 cloves garlic
•1 small container of feta cheese
•1 cup of shredded parmesan cheese

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

2. Combine tomato, basil, feta cheese and red onion in a small mixing bowl; stir well. Season with freshly ground black pepper. Set aside.

3. Arrange bread on a baking sheet. Place in oven, and bake until well toasted, approximately 5 minutes.

4. Remove bread from oven, and transfer to a large serving platter. Let bread cool 3 to 5 minutes. Rub garlic into the top of each slice of toast; the toast should glisten with the garlic. Spoon the tomato mixture generously onto each slice.

5. Sprinkle each slice with parmesan cheese and reheat for 2-3 minutes.

Artichoke Dip


Ingredients:
•1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach - thawed, drained and squeezed dry
•1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
•3 cloves garlic, minced
•1/2 cup mayonnaise
•2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
•2 tablespoons lemon juice
•1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: diced Roma tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, shredded parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a 7x11 inch baking dish.

2. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth. Mix in the artichoke hearts, spinach and Parmesan cheese. Season with garlic and lemon juice. Spread evenly into the prepared baking dish.

3. Bake covered for 20 minutes. Remove the cover, and let the dish bake uncovered for 5 more minutes, or until the surface is lightly browned.

Optional: Spread individual portions of dip on toasted slices of baguette. Top each slice with diced Roma tomatoes, basil and shredded parmesan cheese. Place in oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Carrot Cake

Ingredients:
1/2 cup(s) chopped walnuts
2 cup(s) whole-wheat pastry flour
2 teaspoon(s) baking soda
1/2 teaspoon(s) salt
2 teaspoon(s) ground cinnamon
3 large eggs
1 1/2 cup(s) sugar
3/4 cup(s) nonfat buttermilk
1/2 cup(s) canola oil
1 teaspoon(s) vanilla extract
1 can(s) crushed pineapple, drained, juice reserved
2 cup(s) grated carrots (4-6 medium)
1/4 cup(s) unsweetened flaked coconut
2 tablespoon(s) coconut chips, or flaked coconut
12 ounce(s) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup(s) confectioners' sugar, sifted


Directions

1.To prepare cake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2.Toast walnuts in a small baking pan in the oven until fragrant, 5 to 10 minutes.

3.Whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Whisk eggs, sugar, buttermilk, oil, vanilla, and 1/4 cup of the reserved pineapple juice in a large bowl until blended. Stir in pineapple, carrots, and coconut. Add the dry ingredients and mix with a rubber spatula just until blended. Stir in the nuts. Scrape the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.

4.Bake the cake until the top springs back when touched lightly and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 40 to 45 minutes. Let cool completely on a wire rack.

5.To prepare frosting and finish cake: Place coconut in a small baking pan and toast in the oven at 300°F, stirring several times, until light golden, 5 to 10 minutes.

6.Beat cream cheese, confectioners' sugar, and vanilla in a mixing bowl with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Spread the frosting over the cooled cake. Sprinkle with the coconut.

7.Reduced-calorie-and-carbohydrate variation: Replace 1 1/2 cups sugar in the cake with 3/4 cup no-calorie sweetener, such as Splenda, and 3/4 cup sugar. (Alternatively, use a sweetener product designed for baking, such as Splenda Sugar Blend for Baking; substitute according to package directions.) You can replace the confectioners' sugar in the frosting with no-calorie sweetener as well; the frosting fluffs up nicely, but many of our tasters noticed an aftertaste with this substitution.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/carrot-cake-recipe-5261

Easter Nest Cake

Ingredients:
10-inch chocolate tube or Bundt cake, store-bought or homemade
1 can(s) (16-oz.) vanilla frosting
(foil-wrapped ) chocolate Easter eggs and other egg-shaped Easter candies, in assorted colors and sizes


Directions

1.Place cake on serving platter. Turn a narrow glass or small custard cup over so that the bottom side is facing up, and carefully place the glass so that it fits snugly inside the cake’s center hole.

2.Frost the top two-thirds of the cake using a small offset spatula (one in which the blade bends up where it meets the handle), a knife or the back of a spoon. When spreading, swirl the frosting in an upward motion to give it a fluffy, nestlike appearance.

3.Pile candy and chocolate eggs on top of the bowl or glass in the center of the cake. Place candies so that colors and sizes are well mixed.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/easter-nest-cake

Strawberry-Angel Food Layer Cake

Ingredients:
2/3 cup(s) cake flour (not self-rising)
2/3 cup(s) confectioners' sugar
8 large egg whites
1/4 teaspoon(s) salt
2/3 cup(s) granulated sugar
2 tablespoon(s) sugar
2 teaspoon(s) vanilla extract
1 container(s) (1-pound) strawberries
1 cup(s) heavy cream, substitute whipping cream


Directions

1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease 15 1/2-inch by 10 1/2-inch jelly-roll pan. Line pan with waxed paper; grease waxed paper. Into small bowl, sift flour and confectioners' sugar.

2.In large bowl, with mixer at high speed, beat egg whites and salt until soft peaks form. Sprinkle in 2/3 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons at a time, beating just until whites stand in stiff, glossy peaks when beaters are lifted. Beat in vanilla.

3.Sift flour mixture, one-third at a time, over beaten egg whites; fold in with rubber spatula just until flour mixture is no longer visible.

4.Spread batter evenly in prepared pan. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until cake springs back when lightly touched. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Invert cake onto cutting board; carefully peel off waxed paper.

5.While cake cools, prepare strawberries and whipped cream. Set 5 or 6 smaller berries aside; reserve for garnish. Hull and slice remaining strawberries. In large bowl, with mixer at medium speed, beat cream and remaining 2 tablespoons granulated sugar until soft peaks form. Reserve 3/4 cup whipped cream. Fold strawberries into whipped cream remaining in bowl.

6.Assemble cake: With serrated knife, cut cake into 3 equal strips, about 10-inch by 5-inch each. Place 1 cake strip on platter; spread with half of strawberry whipped cream. Top with 1 more cake strip then with remaining strawberry whipped cream. Top with remaining cake. Spread reserved whipped cream on top of cake. Cut each reserved strawberry in half; use to garnish platter and top of cake. Refrigerate if not serving right away.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/strawberry-angel-food-layer-cake-2747

Article: Foods the help you sleep.

Check out this really great article about foods that can help you sleep at night from EatingWell. I guarantee that it will clear up some misconceptions about foods you think will help but actually don't . But look out, the one food that does help will also help you pack on the pounds!

Baby Food: Vegetable Puree

Ingredients:
1 potato
1 parsnip
1 carrot or 1 turnip
4 to 5 tablespoons formula, breast milk or water

Peel vegetable and dice. Steam for about 10 minutes or until the vegetable is soft. Press through a sieve and mix with liquid. You can use a blender or food processor to puree the vegetables.

http://www.recipegoldmine.com/baby/vegetable-puree.html

Baby Food: Organic Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients:
3 medium organic sweet potatoes

Bake potatoes until done or soft. Cut them open to cool. Put potatoes in the blender or food processor. Puree until smooth. Add water to get desired consistency. (Do not put hot food in the blender. It might explode.)

Fill sterilized ice cube trays with potato puree. Cover and freeze.

Makes about 2 and 1/2 cups of pureed baby food.

NOTE: 1 to 2 cubes (each cube is about 1 to 2 tablespoons) equals a serving. After cubes are frozen, pop out of trays and store in freezer bags or recycled baby food jars. When needed, just put into refrigerator to thaw the night before or set in a container of hot water. May warm in microwave or on stove top for a few seconds.

http://www.recipegoldmine.com/baby/organic-sweet-potatoes.html

Baby Food: Banana Bread Sticks

Ingredients:
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup oil
2 eggs
1 cup mashed banana
1 3/4 cups flour (white, whole wheat, or a combination)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Combine ingredients and stir only until smooth. Pour into a greased loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for about 1 hour or until firmly set.

Cool, remove from pan, and cut into sticks. Spread sticks out on a cookie sheet and bake at 150 degrees F for 1 hour or longer until the sticks are hard and crunchy. Store in a tightly covered container.

http://www.recipegoldmine.com/baby/banana-bread-sticks.html

Black Bean-Goat Cheese Dip

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon(s) olive oil, plus more for brushing (optional)
1 small onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
2 clove(s) garlic, minced
1 1/2 teaspoon(s) cumin (preferably whole seeds, freshly toasted and ground)
2 can(s) (15 1/2 to 19 ounces each) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup(s) chicken stock
Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
2 large poblano peppers
1 bunch(es) scallions, sliced (about 1/2 cup)
1/2 cup(s) coarsely chopped cilantro
1 log(s) (11-ounce) fresh goat cheese
6 whole-grain tortillas, cut into wedges


Directions

1.In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in cumin and cook 30 seconds. Add 1 can beans and lightly mash using a potato masher. Stir in chicken stock and remaining can of beans. Simmer until very thick (but not pasty), 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Let cool.

2.Meanwhile, place poblano peppers directly on a burner over a medium-low gas flame. Turn regularly with tongs to blacken skin, 10-15 minutes (if you don't have a gas stove, you can blacken peppers on a sheet pan under a broiler, turning regularly, about 15 minutes). Place peppers in a paper bag; seal and let sit (and steam) until cool enough to handle. Peel peppers, removing as much of the charred skin as possible without rinsing. Seed and coarsely chop. Transfer to a small bowl and toss with scallions and cilantro.

3.Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In the bottom of a 1- to 1 1/2-quart soufflé or baking dish, spread half of bean mixture. Top with half of cheese, crumbled, and half of pepper mixture. Repeat layering once more, ending on pepper mixture. Place dish on a sheet pan and bake 30-35 minutes, until top is bubbling. Meanwhile, arrange tortilla wedges on a large baking sheet in a single layer. Place in oven with dip and bake 10-12 minutes or until crisp. Brush with oil and sprinkle with salt, if desired. Serve hot with tortilla chips on the side.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/black-bean-goat-cheese-dip

Molten Chocolate Cakes

Ingredients:
4 squares BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
1 cup powdered sugar
2 eggs
2 egg yolks
6 Tbsp. flour
1/2 cup thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping

Make It!
PREHEAT oven to 425°F. Butter four 3/4-cup custard cups or soufflé dishes. Place on baking sheet.

MICROWAVE chocolate and butter in large microwaveable bowl on HIGH 1 min. or until butter is melted. Stir with wire whisk until chocolate is completely melted. Stir in sugar until well blended. Blend in eggs and egg yolks with wire whisk. Stir in flour. Divide batter among prepared custard cups.

BAKE 13 to 14 min. or until sides are firm but centers are soft. Let stand 1 min. Carefully run small knife around cakes to loosen. Invert cakes onto dessert dishes. Serve immediately, topped with whipped topping

Website: Coupn Cravings

Coupon Cravings is an amazing website that my fantastic friend Megan turned me on to. It runs very similar to a blog in that it is updated everyday in the daily entry style. You can get the inside track on coupons and deals from different stores and restaurants around the country! We are very big fans of their diaper coupons and deals already. Enjoy!

Article: Unhealthiest Chicken Dishes in America

From our favorite authors of Eat This, Not That here are the unhealthiest chicken dishes in America. Check out this really great article from Men's Health!

Girl Scout Cookie Recipes!

Check out this great list of Girl Scout Cookie Recipes from Delish! They have everything from Thin Mints to Somoas to Tag-Alongs. Very yummy!!! Now you can have them anytime of the year!

100 Calorie: Quick Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes

Ingredients:
1/4 cup(s) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips, melted (see Tips & Techniques)
1/2 cup(s) part-skim ricotta
12 chocolate wafer cookies
1 tablespoon(s) 100% fruit jam, such as raspberry or cherry


Directions

1.Combine melted chocolate and ricotta in a small bowl. Spoon a scant 1 tablespoon of the mixture on each chocolate wafer and top with 1/4 teaspoon jam.

Tips & Techniques

To melt chocolate, microwave on Medium for 1 minute. Stir, then continue microwaving on Medium, stirring every 20 seconds, until melted. Or place chocolate in the top of a double boiler over hot, but not boiling, water. Stir until melted.

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/quick-mini-chocolate-cheesecakes-recipe