It’s Monday! (and I’m now officially SEVENTY! WOW!)

(He,hehehe – my guess on what 70 looks like!)

My cousin just called me – he & I share the same age – he’s 2 weeks older than I am. He & I grew up as ‘only’ children, his family lived in Iowa so every Christmas we’d get a card with a photo of him on a sled, or next to a snowman with the caption: “Here’s Dougie on his new sled”after which MY parents would do the same: “Here’s Penny with her new sled” – UGH! Anyway, he’s like my brother – we keep in close touch so I call him first to wish him a Happy Birthday, then he reciprocates 2 weeks later! Husband & I are trying to solidify just when we are going out for my birthday dinner (at oldest son’s girlfriend’s restaurant) – our older grandson’s 12th birthday is this Saturday and now I’m hearing THEY want to do a birthday dinner for him Thursday night (that was the day I was hoping husband & I would be able to go out . . . oh well, we’ll see). My prime rib might be delayed a bit.

==================

Strawberry Pie w/ Chocolate Crumb Crust

1 pkg. (about 14 oz) Oreo cookies
3 T. butter, melted
2 T. corn starch
3/4 C. sugar
1 3/4 C. water
1 (3 oz) pkg. strawberry Jell-0
2 pints fresh strawberries, washed/halved
Cool Whip, thawed (optional – for serving)
–
Preheat oven 325 degrees F.
Place cookies & butter in a food processor –
process until fine crumbs form. Pat mixture
into bottom & up sides of a pie plate. Bake
10 minutes – let cool.
In small saucepan, bring corn starch, sugar &
water to a boil; remove from heat & stir
in Jell-O until dissolved. Arrange strawberries
in cooled crust. Pour strawberry Jell-O mixture
over strawberries. Cover pie & refrigerate
at least 1 hour until set. Top with Cool Whip
& serve. Refrigerate any leftovers. Serves 8

(recipe: Kroger flyer)
————————————-

Best Ambrosia Salad

1 (29 oz) can fruit cocktail, drained
1 (8 oz) can pineapple tidbits, drained
1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges,
drained
1/2 C. maraschino cherries, drained/
rinsed
1 (1 oz) box cheesecake-flavor pudding mix
8 oz. sour cream
1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
1 C. miniature marshmallows
–
Drain all fruit (if fruit is packed in syrup,
rinse in cold water & drain.) Combine
fruit cocktail, pineapple, mandarin
oranges & cherries in a large bowl. Sprinkle
top with cheesecake-flavored pudding mix
& stir to coat. Add in sour cream & Cool
Whip – stir well. Fold in marshmallows.
Chill at least 1 hour before serving.

(recipe: recipelion.com)
———————————-

Sweet ‘n Sour Glazed Pork Chops

32 oz. bone-in pork chops (3/4″ – 1″
thick”)
kosher salt/ground black pepper
2 T. unsalted butter
1/4 C. balsamic vinegar
3 T. honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp. dried basil
1/2 tsp. dried thyme
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
(optional)
–
kosher salt/ground black pepper
=
Preheat oven 400 degrees F.
Season chops with salt/pepper, to taste.
Melt butter in large oven-proof skillet over
medium-high heat – add chops & sear on
both sides until golden brown, 2-3 minutes.
Place in oven & roast 8-10 minutes (until an
internal temperature of 140 degrees F. is
reached).

Sweet n’ sour glaze:

Combine balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic,
oregano, basil, thyme & red pepper flakes
in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Season with salt/pepper, to taste. Bring
to a boil; reduce heat & simmer until
slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Serve chops immediately with glaze.
Serves 4

(recipe: yummly.com)
——————————-

Cheesy Bacon/Yellow Squash
Casserole

4-5 medium yellow squash, sliced
into round pieces (unpeeled)
4 slices bacon, cooked crisp/
crumbled (*save drippings)
1/3 C. olive oil
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. dried basil (or 1 1/2 tsp.
fresh, chopped)
1/2 tsp. dried parsley (or 1 1/2 tsp.
fresh, chopped)
1/2 tsp. minced garlic
2 tsp. sugar
1 T. bacon drippings
1/4 C. chopped onion (poster
used purple – can use white or
green onions)
1 C. cracker crumbs (could use
Ritz/crushed or Cheese-it’s/
crushed)
1 C. Cheddar cheese, shredded
(or your choice of flavor)
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray 2-3 qt. baking dish with
nonstick cooking spray. Place
sliced squash in a bowl. In
another bowl combine & whisk
olive oil, black pepper, salt, basil,
parsley, garlic, sugar, bacon drippings
& chopped onion – pour over squash
& toss to cover all squash. Spread a
layer of squash in prepared dish; sprinkle
on half the cracker crumbs, half bacon &
half shredded cheese. Top with another
layer of squash & repeat layer. Cover with
foil & bake 50-55 minutes until squash
is done. Serves 6-8

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
—————————————–

Avocado, Orange & Spinach salad

1 (10 oz) can Ro*Tel diced tomatoes &
green chilies, drained
2 T. honey
1 T. seasoned rice vinegar
1 (9 oz) pkg. baby spinach leaves
1 orange, peeled & chopped
1 medium ripe avocado, pitted,
peeled & chopped

Combine drained tomatoes, honey
& vinegar in small bowl; mix well.
Toss spinach with tomato mixture,
orange & avocado in large bowl.
Serve immediately. Serves 4

(recipe: readyseteat)
——————————–

Crockpot Taco Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 (29 oz) can black beans, drained/
rinsed
1 (16 oz) jar salsa
1 (10.5 oz) can tomatoes w/green chilies
(like Ro-Tel)
2 T. taco seasoning mix
8 oz. cream cheese cut into cubes
–
Spray insides of crockpot with
nonstick spray. Place chicken in bottom
of crockpot; add beans, salsa, tomatoes
& taco seasoning on top of chicken & stir
to combine. Cover & cook on Low
6-8 hours. During last 30 minutes of
cooking time add cream cheese & cover.
Cook until cream cheese is melted.
Serves 4

(recipe: crockpotladies.com)
———————————

Homemade Ice Cream in a Baggie

2 T. granulated sugar
1 C. Half & Half (or light cream)
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 C. coarse salt/canning salt (or table salt)
ice
gallon-sized zip lock bag
pint-sized zip lock bag
-
Mix sugar, Half & Half & vanilla together. Pour
into pint-sized ziplock bag, make SURE it seals
tight. Fill gallon-sized ziplock bag halfway with ice;
pour salt over ice. Place cream-filled bag into ice
filled bag & seal. MAKE SURE BAG IS SEALED
TIGHTLY. Start shaking; shake about 5 inutes
(or 8 minutes if you use heavy cream). Open the
gallon-sized bag; check to see if ice cream is hard;
if not, keep shaking. Once ice cream is done, quickly
run the closed pint-sized baggie under cold water
to quickly clean the salt off the baggie. Open baggie,
insert spoon & enjoy!

(recipe: Facebook)
====================
I don't have any real plans for today - got notified
grandson's baseball game is this evening at 6 -
it's really REALLY hot out (90 degrees F. with a
heat index of 99 degrees F). Husband wasn't
happy to hear we might be sitting outside (we
might not end up going, depends on husband's
mood.)

Am planning on making a big meatloaf for dinner.

Our gas prices are jumping around AGAIN:
A few days ago they were at $3.09/9 and 
now they're back to $2.89/9 - YAY! Crazy.

Was SUPER tired of working on one of the
yellow baby blankets (yarn was heavy,
which made blanket in my lap VERY heavy) -
decided yesterday I'd had enough so I 
finished it (early). It's wide enough to use the
width as the length, so that's what I did:


Hope you have a GREAT day - stay COOL &
remember to drink lots of liquids - stay
hydrated! 

Hugs;

Pammie

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Saturday

Today is my: “Well Earned REST!” It’s been a VERY busy/crazy/hectic week and I’m SOoooooo glad I don’t have anything else to do today except rest & recuperate! Brief summary of yesterday (just as an example): Ended up doing an un-planned babysitting from 9:15-12:30 for starters (son had a good reason/job related, so I said OK); run home & grab husband – we drive an hour to the store where we bought my electric piano, to buy a BETTER foot/sustain pedal (the one that came with it was really cheap plastic – very light – it kept sticking to the bottom of my foot when I played!), left there & went to lunch at a local coney place (we used to think they were really good but after yesterday have changed our minds – they were mediocre, to say the least). Got home & had to chop 2 big onions for the upcoming (in 2 hours) last special needs group Gym Night. Rested for a very short time, drove there – (let’s see, make this short): cut a huge watermelon, cooked hot dogs to feed about 40 people, helped serve/also served ice cream, cleaned up & drove home – got home around 9:30 VERY TIRED! SOoooo glad today is free of anything but cooking dinner!

Tomorrow is Father’s Day so I’ve put together some recipes that might help out for that event:

==============

Millionaire’s Pie

1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks,
drained & blotted dry on paper towels
1 C. chopped pecans
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
2 T. fresh lemon juice
2 C. Cool Whip, thawed
1 (9 inch) prepared graham cracker
pie crust
–
In large bowl combine pineapple, pecans,
sweetn’d cond. milk & lemon juice; mix
well. Gently fold in Cool Whip & pour
into prepared crust. Freeze at least 6
hours or overnight. Allow pie to thaw
about 5 minutes before serving then
freeze any leftover pie.  Serves 6

NOTE: You can top the pie with extra
pecans & a drizzle of caramel ice cream
sauce for an ‘extra millionaire’ presentation.

(recipe:  mrfood.com)
———————————-

Crockpot Chili Cheese Casserole

1 (9 1/4 oz) bag Fritos corn chips
2 (15 oz, ea) cans chili
3 C. shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1 (16 oz) container sour cream
1/2 C. diced white onion
–
extra Fritos corn chips – for garnish,
if desired
–
Spray insides of crockpot with nonstick
cooking spray. Sprinkle 1 1/2 C. Fritos
on bottom of crockpot – spoon chili
over top. Sprinkle half onions on top
then half the cheese. Spread all of
sour cream on top & top with rest of
cheese & onions. Cover & cook on High
2 hours. Serve with additional Fritos on
top (for garnish). Serves 8

(recipe: themagicalslowcooker.com)
———————————–
Crockpot Pepper Jack Chicken

3-4 lb. boneless skinless chicken thighs
or breasts
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. cumin
salt/pepper, to taste
1 (10 oz) pkg. frozen whole green beans
1 bell pepper, seeded/sliced
8 oz. fresh mushrooms, sliced
1/4 C. butter
–
2 C. shredded Pepper Jack cheese
–
Spray insides of crockpot with
nonstick cooking spray.
Place chicken in bottom of crockpot &
season with garlic powder/onion powder,
cumin, salt/pepper. Layer green beans,
mushrooms & pepper on top  – season
again with salt/pepper & top with butter.
Cover & cook on Low 4-6 hours until
chicken is shreddable when stirred. Stir
chicken until shredded & top with cheese.
Cover & cook on High until cheese melts.
Serves 6

(recipe: recipesthatcrock.com)
——————————-

Summer Vegetable Cobbler

2 T. butter
3 small zucchini, sliced
1 small sweet red pepper,
finely chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 T. flour
1 C. milk
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper

Biscuit Topping:

1 C. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
3 T. cold butter
1/4 C. shredded Parmesan cheese
3 T. minced fresh basil
2/3 C. milk
–
Preheat oven 400 degrees F.
Spray 8 inch square baking dish
with nonstick cooking spray.
In large skillet heat butter on
medium-high heat. Add zucchini,
red pepper & onion – cook & stir
10-12 minutes until zucchini is
crisp-tender. Add garlic, cook 1
minute more. In small bowl whisk
flour, milk, salt/pepper – stir into
veggies. Bring to a boil, stirring
constantly; cook & stir 2-3 minutes
until sauce is thickened. Spoon into
prepared dish.
Topping:
In small bowl whisk flour, baking
powder & salt – cut in butter until
mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in cheese & basil; add milk, stir
just until moistened. Drop by rounded
tablespoonfuls over filling.
Bake 25-30 minutes until filling is
bubbly & biscuits are golden brown.
Serves 4

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
———————————–

“Slider Casserole”

2 lb. ground beef
1 box dry onion soup mix
(comes with 2 pkgs – you will
use both)
2 (12 oz, ea) tubes crescent rolls
8-10 slices American cheese
mustard, to taste
dill pickles, chopped – to taste
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Lightly spray 9 X 13″ baking dish
with nonstick cooking spray. In a
skillet brown ground beef; crumble
& mix with both pkgs. onion soup
mix. Drain meat into a colander;
using paper towels, press down on
mixture & squeeze out as much
liquid as possible. Unroll one tube
rolls into prepared dish, flatten
slightly to seal seams & cover the
bottom – top with ground beef then
top with cheese slices. Top with pickles
& mustard (to taste). Unroll other
tube rolls over top, sealing seams &
covering contents in dish. Bake 15-20
minutes until top is golden brown &
cheese is melted. Cut into squares &
serve with additional condiments,
if desired. Serves 8

(recipe: lovebakesgoodcakes.com)
———————————-

Bacon-wrapped Chicken Roll-ups

3 large chicken breasts (about 2 lb)
1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese
22 strips pre-cooked bacon, divided
4 green onions, minced
3 mushrooms, minced
3/4 tsp. minced garlic
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1 T. dried parsley
salt/pepper
–
Preheat oven 400 degrees F.
Spray 9 X 13″ baking dish with
nonstick cooking spray.
In large gallon-sized zip-lock bag
place 1 chicken breast. Seal bag
securely & pound chicken to
flatten (you want it to be as thin
as you can get it – about 1/4
inch thick). Cut breast in half &
repeat with other 2 breasts
(pound & cut in two). Cut 4
slices bacon finely. In a medium
microwaveable bowl place cream
cheese – microwave 30 seconds to
soften. Mix in green onions, minced
bacon & mushrooms along with
minced garlic, onion powder, parsley
& salt/pepper – stir to blend well.
Sprinkle a bit of salt & pepper over
each chicken breast; spoon about 2
T. cream cheese mixture onto each
flattened breast & roll up. Wrap 2-3
pieces of pre-cooked bacon around
each one. NOTE: if bacon is hard to
manipulate, place it on a plate &
microwave about 20 seconds to
make it more pliable. Lay chicken
rolls in prepared pan & bake,
uncovered, 30-40 minutes until
inside of chicken is cooked through
& is no longer pink. Remove from
oven & cover with foil. Allow to stand
5 minutes, then serve. Serves 6

(recipe: jamiecooksitup.net)
——————————-

Jalapeno Popper Pimento Cheese
(spread/dip)

4 oz. cream cheese, softened
8 oz. sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
2 T. hot pickled jalapeno peppers,
chopped well
1/3 C. mayonnaise
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
6 strips thick cut bacon, cooked/crumbled
–
In large microwaveable bowl place cream
cheese – microwave 30 seconds (it should
be mushy & stir-able, not melted – consistency
of mayonnaise). Add shredded Cheddar,
chopped jalapenos & mayonnaise – blend well.
Add cooked bacon & stir well. Store in tightly
covered jar – lasts 4 days refrigerated.

(recipe: nanaslittlekitchen.com)
———————————–

Hot Fudge Pudding Cake

1 1/4 C. sugar, divided
1 C. flour
1/2 C. cocoa, divided
2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 C. milk
1/3 C. melted butter
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 C. brown sugar
1 1/4 C. boiling water
–
Whipped cream or Cool Whip-
garnish
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Combine 3/4 C. sugar, 1/4 C.
cocoa, flour, baking powder &
salt in a bowl. Add milk, butter &
vanilla; beat until smooth. Pour into
an ungreased 9 X 9″ baking dish. Stir
1/4 C. sugar, 1/2 C. brown sugar,
1/4 C. cocoa & sprinkle over top
of batter. Pour boiling water over top
& bake 35-40 minutes until center is
almost set (do not over bake). Let
stand 15 minutes. Serves 9
Serve with whipped cream or
Cool Whip

(recipe: 77recipes.com)

=====================

Ended up finishing one of the three baby
blankets and started a new one. New one
is using a multi-colored medium blue/white
twist – when knit it comes out almost looking
like light blue denim! 

Log Cabin Day is a week
(+ 1 day) away – my mind is still trying to wrap
around new things: moving my group to a new
location on the grounds (closer to the action),
taking less things with me (no longer transporting
our big sign, table covers, etc.) and hoping more
ladies will join me. I was getting a bit concerned
last week but now have seven ladies who have
said they’ll be there for either the day or part
of, so we’ll see.

Gas prices surprised me yesterday – was
expecting to see $2.89/9 (like the day
before) and was shocked at $3.09/9! Oh
well – not much choice, need it.

Hope you’re having a good day!

Hugs;

Pammie

and here’s a NEW week – already!

I don’t know about you – but for me, time seems to be rushing by – EVERY week! Was able to attend a wedding on Saturday of my close friend’s granddaughter – it was lovely. Only one problem: it was raining, off & on all the way there! When I got to the church we were informed the bride REALLY wanted it to be an outside wedding, so we waited. (I didn’t know they had a gazebo all decorated and waiting). The rain let up and we walked this lovely garden path to the gazebo. Along the way there were people handing out clear garbage bags – they were to drape over our chairs because they didn’t have enough time to wipe them all down! HA! Got a few little drops during the ceremony, but for the most part, it went VERY nicely.  Reception decorations and food were on a “Country” theme – lots of lanterns, old window frames, tiny cactus plants on each table – food was totally ‘country’: pulled pork sandwiches, mashed potatoes, BBQ smoked pork & chicken, salad, corn muffins and something I hadn’t heard of before: mac & cheese with CORN in it! (they said it’s the ‘new’ thing – not for this woman…didn’t sound tempting). The cake was lovely – white with BLACK frosting flowers (another ‘new’ thing). Turns out the cake was flavored with Earl Gray English Breakfast tea & cream cheese frosting (not too sweet – interesting flavor). While we’re sitting there waiting for things to start (the actual EATING part) my friend (Bride’s grandma and her daughter) came over to say: “We heard you have some experience cutting cakes – would you cut the cake for us?” (ME??? Yes, I’ve cut MANY sheet cakes in my day for my special needs group – but not a multi-tiered cake!) I grabbed my other friend (leader of our special needs group) and told her she was going to be my “Plate Handler” – we got it done (cake was a little dry & kept falling apart as I sliced it, but people didn’t seem to mind – the cake was eaten!). That’s my interesting event for the weekend.

=============

Easy Coconut Cream Pie

1 (rolled) refrigerated pie crust
(from a 14.1 oz pkg
2 C. milk
3 eggs
1 C. sweetened flaked coconut
1/2 C. sugar
6 T. flour
1 T. butter
1 tsp. vanilla
1/8 tsp. salt
2 C. Cool Whip, thawed
–
Unroll pie crust & press into a 9-inch
pie plate – flute edges. Bake pie shell
accordg. to pkg. directions – let cool
–
In medium saucepan over medium
heat, whisk remaining ingredients
(except Cool Whip). Cook 5-7 minutes
until thickened – pour into pie shell.
Chill at least 4 hours or until set.
Spread Cool Whip over pie & serve
(OR) cover & keep chilled until ready
to serve. Serves 8

NOTE: You can also sprinkle 1/4 C.
toasted coconut on top of the pie
before serving.

(recipe: mrfood.com)
——————————

Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

Dressing:
1 1/2 T. Dijon mustard
1 1/2 T. honey
1 1/2 T. cider vinegar
1 1/2 T. olive oil
1/4 tsp.
1/4 tsp. black pepper

Salad:
1 chicken breast
1/2 T. oil
5 C. Romaine lettuce, roughly
chopped
10 cherry tomatoes
6 spears asparagus
1/2 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
1.5 oz. bacon, cooked/chopped
–
Place all dressing ingredients in a
jar with a lid & shake well.
Cut chicken in half horizontally;
sprinkle with salt/pepper – drizzle
2 tsp. dressing over chicken. Heat
a non-stick pan over high heat until
smoking. Add asparagus – cook 3
minutes until they are a little black
but still firm – remove from pan.
Add oil to skillet & cook chicken about
2 minutes per side until cooked through.
Transfer to a plate, cover loosely with foil
& let rest 5 minutes – slice thinly.
Place lettuce in a bowl; drizzle a bit of
dressing over lettuce & toss then transfer
to a serving platter. Top with cherry
tomatoes, asparagus, avocado & chicken.
Sprinkle with bacon & drizzle remaining
dressing over top. Serves 2

(recipe: realhousemoms.com)
———————————–

Smothered Green Beans

4-6 slices bacon
3 celery ribs, chopped
1 lb. fresh green beans,
trimmed
1 onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, seeded/
chopped
3 plum tomatoes, seeded/
chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. dried basil
1/4 tsp. black pepper
–
Cook bacon in large skillet until
crisp; remove & drain on paper
towels, reserving 2 T. drippings
in skillet. Crumble bacon. Cook
celery & next 3 ingredients in
hot drippings over medium-high
heat 10-12 minutes. Add tomatoes &
remaining 4 ingredients; cook 5
minutes until beans are tender,
stirring often; stir in crumbled
bacon. Serves 6

(recipe: mrfood.com)
—————————–

Crockpot Lemon Herbed Chicken
& Red Potatoes

4 bone-in chicken thighs
2 T. olive oil, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 C. chicken broth
1 yellow onion, cut into
large chunks
1 lb. baby carrots
1 lb. red potatoes, cut into
chunks
1 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 T. dried oregano
1 tsp. lemon-pepper seasoning
3 T. fresh lemon juice
–
In large skillet over medium-high
heat add 1 T. olive oil. Pat chicken
dry using paper towels & place in
skillet. Let chicken brown 5 minutes;
using tongs, turn chicken over &
brown 5 minutes more on other side.
Remove & place on a plate. Add
garlic & saute 30 seconds; add chicken
broth. Place chicken in crockpot &
lightly salt/pepper it. Pour in juices,
garlic & browned bits from pan. Add
onions, carrots & potatoes. Sprinkle
with salt/pepper, oregano & lemon
pepper. Drizzle 1 T. olive oil on top
then drizzle lemon juice over. Cover
& cook on Low 4-6 hours until
chicken & veggies are cooked. Scoop
potatoes, carrots & chicken onto
serving plates. (NOTE: if you enjoy
crispy skin on chicken – stick chicken
under broiler a few minutes)
Serves 4

(recipe: 365daysofcrockpot.com)
——————————

Tex-Mex Stuffed Peppers

1 C. instant white or brown rice,
cooked accordg to pkg. directions
2 tsp. olive oil
1/2 lb. ground beef
1 T. chili powder
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn,
divided
1 (15 oz) can pink beans, drained/
rinsed
1/2 C. sour cream
1/4 C. chopped fresh cilantro
4 large red or green bell peppers,
stem ends neatly cut out – seeded
(will be stuffing ‘standing up”)
1/2 C. shredded Monterey Jack cheese
–
Preheat oven 375 degrees F.
Spray a shallow roasting pan with
nonstick cooking spray. Heat oil in
large skillet over medium heat; add
gr. beef & cook until no longer pink/
drain (about 5 minutes). Add chili
powder, cumin, oregano, garlic
powder, salt/pepper – cook 1 minute.
Add cooked rice, corn, beans & sour
cream – cook 1 minute to heat
through. Remove from heat & stir in
cilantro. Stuff peppers with beef
mixture & arrange peppers “standing
up” side-by-side in prepared pan. Top
with shredded cheese & bake until
peppers are soft & cheese is golden,
about 30 minutes. Serves 4

(recipe: cookstr.com)
———————————

Fruity Spinach Salad

2-3 C. fresh spinach
1 C. strawberries, cut into
pieces
1 C. blueberries
1/2 C. walnut pieces
1 large apple, chopped
1 large pear, (cored)/
chopped
–
Combine all ingredients in large
bowl. (You can add a dressing
to salad or let each person
add their own dressing).
Serves 6

NOTE: You can add all kinds of
fruits & nuts: sliced kiwi, oranges,
bananas, almonds.

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
—————————
1-Pan Chicken & Summer Veggies

1 lb. boneless skinless chicken cutlets
2 tsp. dried basil
salt/pepper
2 T. olive oil, divided

Sauce:
1 C. yellow squash, cut into 1″
pieces
1 C. green beans, cut into 2″ lengths
1/2 yellow onion, diced
2 ears corn-on-the-cob, cut off cobs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 C. chicken broth
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper
2 tsp. thyme leaves
1 1/2 C. cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 C. heavy cream
1/4 C. Parmesan cheese, shredded
pepper, to taste
–
Pat chicken dry & season each on both
sides with salt/pepper & dried basil. In
a large saute pan over medium-high heat
add 1 T. olive oil. Add as many cutlets as
will fit comfortably in pan without over-
crowding. Cook about 3 minutes until golden
brown on first side – flip & cook 2-3 minutes
more until just cooked through. Transfer to
a plate & cover with foil – repeat with
remaining chicken. After all chicken has
been cooked & removed from pan, add
yellow squash, green beans & onions to
skillet with remaining oil – reduce heat
to medium. Cook 3-4 minutes until soft
& beginning to brown. When veggies in
skillet are soft, add corn & garlic -cook
1 minute more, stirring frequently. Pour
chicken broth into skillet then stir to
scrape up anything sticking to bottom of
pan. Add salt, red pepper flakes & thyme –
cook 2 minutes until broth has reduced
by half. Reduce heat to Low & stir in
tomatoes & heavy cream; add cooked
chicken & any accumulated juice back
into skillet. Let simmer until chicken is
reheated & sauce has thickened to
desired consistency. Remove from heat,
sprinkle with Parm. cheese & black pepper –
serve immediately. Serves 4-6

(recipe: everydaydishes.com)
———————————-

Orange Creamsicle Pudding

1 (3 oz) pkg. orange Jell-O
1 C. boiling water
1 C. ice cold water
1 (3.5 oz) pkg. instant vanilla
pudding mix (reserve 1 T.)
3 C. heavy cream
3/4 C. powdered sugar
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
–
In a large bowl combine Jell-O &
boiling water – stir until dissolved.
Stir in cold water & let stand 5
minutes. Beat in dry pudding mix
until thoroughly combined –
refrigerate 10 minutes. In large
bowl beat heavy cream, reserved
1 T. pudding mix, powdered sugar &
vanilla until stiff peaks form. Fold
half of whipped cream into Jell-O
mixture until thoroughly combined.
Divide half of pudding mixture into
6 parfait glasses or a serving bowl.
Layer evenly with remaining whippe
cream & top with remaining pudding
mixture. Refrigerate 1 hour until ready
to serve. Serves 6

(recipe: mrfood.com)

====================

One thing became apparent at the wedding –
it was overcast & chilly – I wore a light white
blouse (no sweater or covering). As I went
through the day I got to remembering a
shawl I knit about four years ago for a friend
who was getting married – maybe I could knit
one for me! I have a particular yarn in mind
(IF it’s still in my yarn stash – was gifted it
many years ago: very fine white – not sure
if it’s angora, but would make a very nice
shawl – if I still have it AND if there’s enough
of it!). I also began to peruse ETSY.com –
great place to find all kinds of handmade
items – YES, they have several very nice knit
white shawls for under $30.00 – we’ll see
where this is going. Don’t think I will be
needing it any time soon (no more weddings
this summer, that I know of!).

Today is very warm – 84 degrees F. and sunny;
middle son is considering going to the beach
to read & sun himself. (Yes, I could go, but being
VERY fair, I burn like a lobster after around 10
minutes in the sun WITH all kinds of sun blockers).
Years ago, when the boys were younger, people
would look at me like some sort of strange person
(YES – I’m strange, but in another way – hehehe)
because I would have a huge sun hat on, sun glasses,
my husband’s old white dress shirt with sleeves rolled
up a bit and a bit beach towel wrapped around my legs.
It worked for me! I’ve had enough very bad sun burns
in my day that I know better.

Hope you’re enjoying this mid-June day!

Hugs;

Pammie

Sunday Evening

I feel like I’m ‘Back to ME’ again – had a great choir practice this evening followed by evening church and communion – I’m ‘fueled’ and ready to regain the land of the living – so to speak.

There are SOooooo many recipes to share, I’ve decided to keep on, especially since I always give the source of each recipe on this blog. Here goes:

================

Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake

2 lb. fresh strawberries, washed, tops
cut off & sliced 1/4 inch
2 sleeves graham crackers
1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese, room temp.
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
2 (3.4 oz, ea) pkgs. instant cheesecake
flavored pudding mix
3 C. milk
1 (12 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed/divided
–
Spray 9 X 13″ baking dish with nonstick
cooking spray. Line bottom with graham
crackers. In large bowl combine cream
cheese & sweetn’d cond’ milk – using elec
mixer, beat until smooth & creamy. Add
pudding mixes & milk – continue mixing on
Low 4-5 minutes until it starts to thicken.
Fold in 2 C. Cool Whip until smooth. Pour
half of cream cheese mixture over graham
crackers. Arrange a single layer of straw-
berry slices over cream cheese mixture &
top with another layer of graham crackers.
Cover with remaining cream cheese mixture &
top with another layer of sliced strawberries.
Cover & refrigerate 6-8 hours.
When serving, top with remaining Cool Whip.
Crush remaining graham crackers & sprinkle
over top.

(recipe: Tasty Recipes)
——————————

Crockpot Cheesy Salsa Chicken/Rice

1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts,
cubed
2 (10.75 oz, ea) cans Cheddar cheese soup
1 (16 oz) jar chunky salsa
1 1/4 C. water
1 1/4 C. uncooked long-cooking rice
(NOT minute rice)
–
Mix all ingredients in crockpot;
cover & cook on Low 5 hours –
(it’s done when chicken & rice
are tender). Serves 6-8

(recipe: recipesthatcrock.com)
—————————–

Chunky Gazpacho Salad

5 roma tomatoes, chopped into
1-inch chunks
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
1/2 English cucumber, chopped
2 green onions, sliced (green &
white parts)
1/3 C. fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 T. spicy vegetable juice
1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp. Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/4 C. olive oil
–
Combine tomatoes, bell pepper,
celery & cucumber in a large
bowl with green onions & parsley.
In small bowl whisk vegetable juice,
vinegar, Wors. sauce, Dijon mustard,
salt/pepper. Slowly whisk in olive
oil until well combined; pour over
salad & toss mix well. Refrigerate
30 minutes to allow flavors to combine.
Serves 4-6

(recipe: lisasdinnertimedish.com)
———————————

Grilled Maple Pork Chops

6 T. maple syrup
6 T. balsamic vinegar
3/4 tsp. salt
3/4/ tsp. ground black pepper
4 boneless pork loin chops (1 1/2
inches thicken & 12 oz, each)
–
In small bowl whisk syrup, vinegar,
salt/pepper until blended – pour
1/2 C. into a large ziplock bag. Add
chops – seal bag & turn to coat.
Refrigerate 1 hour (reserve
remaining marinade for basting)
–
Oil grill & bring to medium heat.
Drain chops (discard marinade in
bag). cook chops, covered, over
medium heat OR broil 4 inches from
heat 13-17 minutes until a thermometer
reads 145 degrees F., turning occasionally
& basting with reserved marinade during
last 5 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before
serving. Serves 4

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
——————————–

Maple Baked Beans with Sausage

2 (28 oz, ea) cans Bush’s Original baked
beans
1 lb. mild sausage
1/2 C. chopped white onion
2 T. brown sugar
1 T. McCormick Grill Mates
Smokehouse Maple
2 T. ketchup
2 T. mustard
1/3 C. maple syrup
–
Preheat oven 300 degrees F. Brown
sausage in skillet & drain. Combine
with all other ingredients in a casserole
dish with a lid. Bake 2 hours until
desired consistency. Serves 8-10

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
———————————-

Chicken & Asparagus Quiche

2 (9 inch, ea) pie crusts
2 T. butter
2 T. olive oil
1 T. garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed/
cut into 1-inch pieces
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts,
diced
3 eggs, beaten
1 C. Half & Half
1 tsp. dry mustard
salt/pepper, to taste
2 C. shredded Monterey Jack
cheese, divided
–
Preheat oven 450 degrees F.
Place pie crusts in two 9″
pie pans & bake 10-12 minutes
until lightly golden.

Reduce oven temp. to 375 degrees F.

In large skillet melt butter & olive
over medium heat. Saute
garlic, onion & asparagus 5-7
minutes until asparagus is
crisp-tender. Using a slotted
spoon, remove vegetables
from skillet, leaving as much
butter mixture as possible. Add
chicken to skillet & saute 7-8
minutes until fully cooked.
Remove skillet from heat. In a
bowl whisk remaining ingredients
(except cheeses). Sprinkle 1/2 C.
cheese in each pie crust. Layer
half of chicken in each crust,
followed by half veggies per
crust & half egg mixture into
each crust. Top with remaining
cheese. Bake, uncovered, 30-35
minutes. Makes 2 quiches, each
serving 4-6

(recipe: gooseberrypatch.com)
——————————–

4-Ingredient Almond Joy Cookies

1 (14 oz) bag sweetened shredded
coconut
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed
milk
2 C. semi-sweet chocolate chips
2/3 C. lightly salted chopped almonds
–
Preheat oven 325 degrees F.
Line large baking sheet with parchment
paper. In large bowl combine coconut,
cond. milk, choc. chips & almonds –
stir until combined. Fill a small bowl
with a little warm water.Using a scoop
or tablespoon, scoop dough onto sheet.
Dip your fingers in the water & gently
pat down tops of each cookie to form
discs (or use the back of a spoon
dipped in water). Bake 14-17 minutes
until edges start to turn brown. Cool
on baking sheet a few minutes then
transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Makes 3 dozen

(recipe: tiphero.com)

=====================

Our weather this past week has gone from the
80’s/90’s down to the 60’s today with overcast
clouds & intermitant rain – it’s OK – all the beautiful
flowers & growing things need the rain.

I’m still plugging away at the three baby blankets
with a short pause to (once again) correct slight
mistakes in 2 out of 3…sometimes ya ‘got it’ and
sometimes ya just don’t! I’m determined to finish
all three of them.

OH! Gas prices dropped a bit from $3.?? down to
$2.89/9 – not great but better than into the Three
dollar range, right? Makes my little Scots heart
glad to see any drop in price!

Hope that you are having a good day/evening –

Hugs;

Pammie

It’s Saturday – again

Not quite like the other day when it was sunny & in the 70’s – today it’s rainy, chilly & gloomy (temp. 63 degrees F.). Looking at the coming week, it looks like we won’t have sun & 70’s until around Tuesday – that’s OK…life goes on, right?

GUESS WHAT! My Knitting Mojo is back! Yesterday I decided to attempt to figure out where I went so terribly wrong on both baby afghans – took me a bit, but they are both UP & running again! YAY! (If you’re counting, that makes 3 I’m working on now – 2 yellow, one multi-colored – all charity knits). I thought it was amusing last night while at my special needs group’s Gym Night one lady started talking about going to a garage sale where they had a lot of yarn for sale at great prices (she said: “Pam, you SHOULD have been there! I’ll be you’d buy the place out!”) I told her I have 3 very large Tupperware bins full of yarn plus several garbage bags full, so it would not be something I’d consider at the moment. She looked quite shocked that I would have that much until I told her I do charity knitting – guess that made sense to her, then.

==============

Banana Pudding Dip

1 (3.4 oz) pkg. instant banana
pudding mix
1 1/2 C. milk
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
3 T. sugar
1 C. Cool Whip, thawed
1/2 C. diced fresh bananas
–
Suggested Dippers:
Vanilla Wafers, shortbread slices,
graham crackers and/or fresh
fruit, for serving
–
Garnish:
Whipped cream & vanilla wafer
crumbs  (optional)
–
In medium bowl whisk pudding mix &
milk until smooth. Using an elec. mixer
beat cream cheese & sugar until smooth.
Add pudding mixture & beat well. Fold
in Cool Whip & refrigerate until ready
to serve.  Serves 8

Just before serving:
Top with chopped bananas & garnish
with whipped cream & cookie crumbs
if using.

(recipe: letsdishrecipes.com)
————————————-

Baked Mushroom Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken
breast halves (1 lb)
1/4 C. flour
3 T. butter, divided
1 C. sliced fresh mushrooms
1/2 C. chicken broth
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. black pepper
1/3 C. shredded mozzarella cheese
1/3 C. grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 C. sliced green onions
–
Preheat oven 375 degrees F.
Spray a 11 X 7″ baking dish with
nonstick cooking spray. Flatten
each chicken breast to 1/4″
thickness*. Place flour in zip lock
bag; add chicken (a few pieces at
a time) – seal & shake to coat. In large
skillet brown chicken in 2 T. butter on
both sides – transfer to prepared dish.
In same skillet saute mushrooms in
remaining butter until tender. Add
broth, salt/pepper – bring to boil &
cook 5 minutes until liquid is
reduced to 1/2 C. – spoon over chicken.
Bake, uncovered, 15 minutes until
chicken is no longer pink. Sprinkle with
cheese & green onions. Bake 5 minutes
longer until cheese is melted. Serves 4

*To flatten – place chicken in ziplock bag;
seal & pound out chicken using a meat
mallet (if you have one) or a rolling pin
to 1/4 inch thickness.

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
————————————

Sausage & Cheese Grits Muffins

1/2 lb. pork sausage, cooked/drained
1 1/2 flour
3/4 C. quick-cooking grits
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
4 T. (or 1/4 C.) butter, melted
2 eggs
1 C. buttermilk
2 T. honey
1 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
–
Preheat oven 400 degrees F.
Spray 12-cup muffin tin with
nonstick cooking spray.
In medium bowl whisk flour, grits,
baking powder, baking soda & salt.
Stir in melted butter, eggs, buttermilk &
honey – mix well. Fold in cooked/crumbled
sausage & cheese. Add batter to muffin
tins & bake 20-25 minutes until
golden brown. Makes 12 muffins

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
———————————-

Crockpot Pepperoni Pizza Penne

2 lb. ground beef or turkey, browned/
drained
1 (8 oz) pkg. penne pasta, cooked
1 (16 oz) pkg. shredded mozzarella
cheese
1 (10 3/4 oz) can tomato bisque
2 (14 oz, ea) jars pizza sauce
1 (7 oz) pkg. sliced pepperoni
–
Place half of ground meat in bottom
of crockpot – layer half of cooked
penne on top. Sprinkle half of cheese
on top & pour half of soup on top.
Pour 1 jar pizza sauce over top &
layer half of pepperoni on top =
repeat layering with remaining
ingredients. Cover & cook on Low
4 hours. Serves 6

(recipe: recipesthatcrock.com)
——————————–

Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Casserole

1 (12.4 oz) can refrigerated
cinnamon roll dough
1/2 C. whipping cream
4 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
3 T. maple syrup
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
(sugar icing – optional, often
included in dough container)
–
Remove dough from can; cut
each piece into quarters. In large
bowl combine whipping cream,
eggs, vanilla, maple syrup, cinnamon
& nutmeg; whisk until smooth.
Place three-fourths of quartered
pieces in bottom of 4-quart crockpot.
Pour cream mixture on top & layer
remaining pieces on top. Cover &
cook on High 1 hour 45 minutes. If
your dough came with icing, drizzle
over warm casserole before serving.
Serves 4-6

NOTE: For a more festive flavor: omit
nutmeg & mix zest of 1 clementine
orange with 1 T. granulated sugar –
sprinkle over top of casserole instead
of using icing.

(recipe: cooktopcove.com)
————————————

Crunchy Asian Coleslaw

1 (3 oz) pkg. oriental or beef Ramen
noodles, crushed (discard seasoning pkt)
1 bottle Marzetti Simply Dressed Ginger
Sesame Vinaigrette
3 C. ready-to-eat coleslaw mix
2 C. broccoli slaw
4-5 green onions, chopped
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Break up or crush Ramen noodles &
place in single layer on medium
baking sheet – bake 10 minutes until
lightly golden. Remove from oven &
cool completely. In large bowl add
coleslaw, broccoli slaw, green onions &
cooled noodles. Pour vinaigrette over
mixture & lightly toss. Serve immediately
to retain it’s crunchiness.
Serves 4-6

NOTE: If you can’t find the vinaigrette:

Homemade Dressing:

1/2 C. peanut oil
1/4 C. sugar
6 T. rice vinegar
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper

Combine all dressing ingredients &
mix well. Pour over salad mixture &
lightly toss

(recipe: mommyskitchen.net)
———————————
Tuna Pasta Casserole

2 1/2 C. multigrain or whole grain rotini
pasta (or your choice of pasta)
3 tsp. corn oil
1 (10 3/4 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
1 (8 oz) container sour cream
2 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
2 C. frozen peas, thawed
2 (5 oz, ea) cans solid white albacore
tuna in water, drained
1/2 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
2/3 C. crackers, coarsely crushed
–
Preheat oven 375 degrees F.
Cook pasta 2 minutes less than pkg.
directions; drain. Spray 9 X 13″ baking
dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In large bowl mix oil, soup, sour cream,
milk, cream cheese, pepper & garlic
powder until well mixed. Stir in peas,
pasta, tuna & Cheddar cheese then
place in prepared dish, spreading out
evenly. Bake, uncovered, 20 minutes.
Remove from oven & sprinkle top with
crushed crackers. Bake 15-20 minutes
more until top is lightly brown & sauce
is bubbling. Let cool 10 minutes before
serving. Serves 10-12

(recipe: crayonsandcravings.com)
——————————-

No Bake Peanut Butter/Oat Cookies

2 C. sugar
1/2 C. milk
1 (8 T.) stick unsalted butter
1/4 C. unsweetened cocoa powder
3 C. old-fashioned rolled oats
1 C. smooth peanut butter
1 T. vanilla
–
Line a baking sheet with waxed paper
or parchment. In medium saucepan
bring sugar, milk, butter & cocoa to a
boil over medium heat, stirring
occasionally. Let boil 1 minute; remove
from heat & stir in oats, & peanut butter;
stir to combine. Drop teaspoonfuls of
mixture onto prepared sheet & let
stand at room temperature about 30
minutes until cooled & hardened.
Refrigerate in airtight container up to
3 days. Makes about 60 cookies

(recipe: foodnetwork.com)

=====================

So – today is/was also the wedding day
of Prince Harry & Megan Markle – did
you get to watch it on TV? I had forgotten
about it until my husband spotted it on
TV so I watched it (on 3 different channels,
since each one cut out – never did get to
see the entire thing, but that’s OK – all
went well.) I find it interesting looking at
the various HATS the women wore – all
the “Fascinators” (those little or big things
that just sort of sit on the top or to the side
of the head – not exactly a HAT). One woman
had one on that looked like a paper plate
with a little thin ribbon – looked like something
a kindergartner would make for their mom!
Oh well – that’s “fashion” for ya!

Just put a pork roast with carrots, potatoes,
chopped onion, mushrooms & cranberry
sauce in crockpot for dinner tonight. If you’ve
never tried it – cranberry sauce adds a nice
tart/sweet taste to pork. (also had salt/
black pepper, Worcestershire sauce & garlic
powder.) I LOVE using my crockpot – you can
throw all the ingredients in and, in hours,
have a complete meal all cooked! YAY!

Have a SUPER GREAT day!

Hugs;

Pammie

 

WOooooooEeeeeeee – it’s HOT!

Just got home from a little trip to drop off some donations to St. Vincent de Paul (my new ‘charity of choice – gave up on Purple Heart – used to donate to them all the time but every time we scheduled a pick up, they never came!) This place is close and looks like they could use some nice donations, so that’s why I chose them. Stopped at KMart on the way home & picked up a pair of summer shorts for me; I have, probably, 7 pairs IN A BOX which would be really wrinkled, so I just got lazy & bought a new pair. Didn’t hurt that I had $6.00 off in KMart bonus points – that helped! It’s a bright, sunny day – 77 degrees F. (not much breeze) – I LOVE THESE KINDS OF DAY!  Even if I stay in the house, it cheers me up just seeing the sunshine!

KNITTING MOJO:  Dropped both other baby afghans & started a new one in bright yellow using a 2-row pattern and am happy with it. (I’ll go back to the others in awhile).

GAS PRICES: WOW! Our gas is at $2.99/9 and in some places $3.09/9 – wonder what’s pushing the big jump in prices?

============

Island Breezes Coffee Cake
(overnight recipe)

2/3 C. brown sugar, packed
1/2 C. sweetened/shredded
coconut, toasted
1 (3.4 oz) pkg. cook & serve
coconut cream pudding mix
20 frozen bread dough dinner
rolls
1 (20 oz) can pineapple tidbits,
drained
1 (3 oz) jar macadamia nuts,
coarsely chopped
1/2 C. butter, cubed
–
In small bowl mix brown sugar,
coconut & pudding mix (dry). Place
10 rolls in a greased Bundt (or tube)
pan. Layer with half sugar mixture,
1 C. pineapple tidbits, 1/2 C. nuts &
1/4 C. butter – repeat layers. Cover
with plastic wrap & refrigerate
overnight.
=
Remove pan from fridge about
1 3/4 hours before serving – let
rise in a warm place until dough
reaches top of pan, about 1 hour.

Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Remove plastic wrap; bake 35-40
minutes until golden brown. (cover
loosely with foil if top browns too
quickly). Cool 10 minutes before
inverting onto a serving plate.
Serve warm. Makes 12 servings

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
———————————

Garlic Butter Shrimp & Quinoa

3 T. unsalted butter*
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 green or/red/yellow bell pepper,
diced
2 stalks celery, diced
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
2 C. uncooked quinoa
4 C. chicken broth
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. dried thyme
1 lb. shrimp, raw/tail-on
3 T. unsalted butter*
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes,
(optional)
salt/pepper, to taste
fresh chopped parsley (garnish-
optional)
wedges lemon- for serving
–
Place a large non-stick skillet over
medium heat & add 3 T. butter –
melt completely. Add onion, bell
pepper, celery & garlic – cook 3-4
minutes until onion & bell pepper
have begun to soften. Add uncooked
quinoa – stir to combine & cook 1
minute, toasting the quinoa. Add
chicken broth & bring to boil – reduce
heat to Low then add oregano & thyme;
stir to combine. Cover & simmer 15
minutes.
After quinoa has simmered 15 minutes:
remove lid & stir. Add shrimp then arrange
on top of quinoa (shrimp will probably
cover entire top of dish – you might have
to nestle a few into mixture until cooked
through.) Remove lid & test doneness of
quinoa (it’s done when completely soft
but still ‘pops’ a bit when eaten. The
quinoa should have absorbed nearly all
liquid but it will continue to absorb
moisture as it sits. Remove skillet from
heat; melt remaining 3 T. butter in
microwave & stir garlic, salt/pepper
flakes into melted butter then drizzle
over shrimp. Sprinkle top with parsley
(if using) & serve immediately with
lemon wedges on the side.
Serves 8-10

*if you don’t want to use butter you
can substitute with same amount of
olive oil

(recipe: everydaydishes.com)
———————————–

Easy, Creamy Chicken & Mushroom
Pasta

3 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
1 (10 1/2 oz) pkg. mushrooms sliced
thinly
1 (11.28 oz) pkg. penne pasta
1 shallot, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, crushed
2 1/2 C. chicken stock
8 T. cream cheese
salt/black pepper, to taste
handful chopped fresh Italian parsley,
finely chopped (garnish)
–
Cook pasta to al dente; reserve 2 ladles
pasta water & drain cooked pasta. Spray
a frying pan with nonstick cooking spray –
add chicken strips & cook until lightly
golden on both sides; remove & set
aside. Spray pan with a little more
nonstick spray – add shallot, garlic &
mushrooms – fry 2 minutes. Add a little
stock & reduce down – repeat with a
little stock until mushrooms are golden.
Whisk cream cheese in remaining stock
& reserved pasta water then add to pan
with mushrooms – bring to boil. Simmer,
uncovered, until sauce reduces down &
starts to thicken slightly. Add pasta &
chicken to pan & continue to simmer until
chicken is thoroughly cooked & sauce has
thickened. Stir parsley into mixture &
season well with salt/pepper. Serves 4

(recipe: slimmingeats.com)
———————————
Spinach Dip Crescent Bites
(appetizers)

2 T. butter
1 C. chopped green onion (about
1 bunch, white & green both)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 C. chopped red bell pepper,
seeded (1 large)
1 (10 oz) pkg. frozen chopped
spinach, thawed/well squeezed/
drained
8 oz. cream cheese
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. paprika
1/8 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
1/3 C. mayonnaise
1 T. fresh lemon juice
1/2 C. chopped water chestnuts
1/2 C. shredded Parmesan chehese
2 tubes refrigerated crescent rolls
–
Preheat oven 375 degrees F.
In a saute pan over medium heat
melt butter; add green onion, bell
pepper & garlic -saute 3-4 minutes.
Add spinach & cream cheese – stir
mixture & blend in cream cheese until
melted. Stir in salt/pepper, paprika,
crushed red pepper flakes, mayo,
lemon juice, water chestnuts &
Parmesan – remove from heat. Unroll
one pkg. crescent rolls & place on a
baking sheet. Using your fingers, gently
press seams together to seal. Spread
spinach mixture evenly over dough,
leaving about 1/2-inch border along
edges. Unroll other pkg. rolls & place
on top of spinach mixture – press edges
together to seal – gently press seams
together. Bake 20-25 minutes until
roll dough is golden brown. Cut into
small squares & serve (NOTE: a pizza
cutter works very well for cutting them).

(recipe: thekitchenismyplayground.com)
——————————–
Crockpot Bacon/Spinach Quiche

1 T. butter
10 eggs
1 C. milk
1 C. chopped spinach
8 oz. shredded cheese
1/2 tsp. black pepper
10 slices bacon, chopped
(or 3/4 C. real bacon bits)
1/2 C. chopped spinach (or
any other vegetable)
–
Spray insides of crockpot with
nonstick cooking spray. In very
large bowl combine eggs, milk,
cheese, spinach & pepper – pour
into crockpot. Sprinkle cooked
bacon on top. Cover & cook on
Low 4 hours. Serves 8

(recipe: sidetrackedsarah.com)
———————————-

Spicy Oven-baked Pork Chops

4-6 bone-in pork chops (or boneless,
if desired)
1 C. ketchup
1/4 C. water
2 T. apple cider vinegar
2 T. Worcestershire sauce
2 T. brown sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. dried onion flakes (or
finely chopped onion)
1 tsp. minced garlic
2 tsp. Cajun seasoning*
–
Preheat oven 375 degrees F.
Place chops in a baking dish or
iron skillet. Whisk together
remaining ingredients in a bowl
& pour over chops. Bake 45-60
minutes uncovered until chops
are done in center. Serves 4-6

*Homemade Cajun Seasoning
(makes about 1/3 C.)

2 T. paprika
1 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes (or
more, if desired)
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground thyme
1/2 tsp. oregano
–
Combine all ingredients & store in
airtight container.

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
——————————–

Crockpot Peanut Butter Fudge Cake
(use medium-sized crock, not large)

3/4 C. sugar
1/2 C. flour
3/4 tsp. baking powder
1/2 C. milk
1/2 C. peanut butter
1 T. coconut oil
1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 T. cocoa powder
1 C. boiling water
–
vanilla ice cream
–
Spray insides of crockpot with
nonstick spray.
In bowl combine 1/4 C. sugar, flour &
baking powder. In another bowl combine
milk, peanut butter, oil & vanilla; whisk
until smooth. Combine milk mixture with
dry ingredients (makes a thick batter.)
Spread batter evenly into crockpot.
In microwave, heat 1 C. water to boiling
(about 3 minutes) then add in remaining
sugar & cocoa powder; whisk to dissolve
sugars. Pour this directly over cake
batter in crockpot. Cover & cook on High
1 1/2 – 2 hours until spongy & springs back
to the touch, it will not be firm. Spoon
into bowls while warm; top with vanilla
ice cream, if desired.

(recipe: thetaylor-house.com)

====================

Not much new around here, supposed to go
to another grandson baseball game but it’s just
too hot for me (I don’t do well in heat, even in
the shade). Middle son is going to cook me
dinner tonight (for Mother’s Day) – I’m guessing
it will be something like brown rice & mixed
oriental veggies (he’s vegetarian) – oh well, I
don’t have to cook, so I’m looking forward to it!

Have a great day!!!

Hugs;

Pammie

Anyone for Second Spring?

Yesterday was ‘interesting’: temps in the high 20’s, extremely windy and intermittent SNOW! I went to my library knit group first then to Krogers – BRrrrrrr! You certainly didn’t want to be out in it for very long – bitter cold/bitter wind. Got my shopping done, put the cart next to my car to unload it and the next thing I know my cart is rolling across the parking lot! LOTS of wind! Also had to pump gas – that was NO fun! Gas prices jumped a bit from $2.59 to (depending on where you go) $2.69 or $2.79/9! Now is when I’m very grateful for a nice warm/operating car and nice warm house!

============

The Perfect Cream Pie Bars

Dough:

2 C. flour
1/2 C. sugar
4 eggs yolks
1 1/2 sticks butter, room temp,
slightly melted
2 tsp. baking powder
2 tsp. vanilla

Filling:

4 egg whites
2 C. plain Greek yogurt
1/2 C. strawberry yogurt
1 3/4 C. sour cream
1 1/4 C. sugar
5 T. flour (heaping)
zest from 1 lemon
2 tsp. vanilla
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray 9 X 13″ baking dish with
nonstick cooking spray.
Dough:
Mix all dough ingredients just
until combined (do not over mix).
Divide in half – spread half on
bottom of prepared dish. Bake
10-15 minutes. Cool slightly.

Filling:
Whisk egg whites until stiff peaks
form. In large bowl mix yogurt with
sour cream, sugar, lemon zest, vanilla
& flour – gently fold in egg whites.
Pour filling onto baked/cooled dough.
Crumble other half of dough over top
of filling. Bake 30 minutes until top
is golden. Cool to room temp;
refrigerate 2 hours. Serve chilled.

(recipe: recipelion.com)
——————————–

5-Ingredient Ham/Noodle Casserole

1 (12 oz) pkg. wide egg noodles
1 T. prepared mustard
2-4 C. diced/cooked ham
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom
soup (undiluted)
1 C. grated Cheddar cheese
–
Optional:
4 C. frozen French-style green beans
or any other veggies of your choice
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray 9 X 13″ baking dish with
nonstick cooking spray. Cook egg
noodles accordg. to pkg. directions
for al dente; drain. In large bowl
combine mustard, ham, soup &
(optional green beans). Pour cooked/
drained noodles over ingredients in
bowl – stir to combine. Pour mixture
into prepared dish & top with grated
cheese. Cover with foil & bake 20
minutes. Remove foil; bake uncovered
20-25 minutes more until cheese is
melted & dish is heated through.
Serves 8

(recipe: theseasonedmom.com)
————————————-

Crispy Green Beans

1 C. Panko bread crumbs
1/2 C. grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
2 eggs
1 1/2 lb. fresh green beans,
trimmed
–
Preheat oven 425 degrees F.
Spray a baking spray with nonstick
cooking spray. In a shallow dish
combine bread crumbs, Parm. cheese,
garlic powder, salt & cayenne pepper –
mix well. In another shallow dish whisk
eggs. Coat each green bean in egg, then
coat completely in bread crumb mixture.
Place in a single layer on sheet & spray
with nonstick cooking spray. Bake
12-15 minutes until golden brown &
crispy. Serve immediately.
Serves 6

(recipe: mrfood.com)
——————————

Breaded Pork Chops

1/4 C. Bisquick baking mix
7 saltine cracker squares, crushed
(1/2 C.)
1/2 tsp. seasoned salt
1/8 tsp. black pepper
1 egg
1 T. water
4 pork chops (about 1/2″ thick)
–
In a plate or shallow dish, mix
Bisquick, cracker crumbs, seasoned
salt & pepper. Mix egg & water in
another shallow bowl/plate. Dip
pork chops into egg mixture then
coat in Bisquick mixture. Spray a
12-inch skillet with cooking spray &
heat over medium-high heat. Cook
pork chops 8-10 minutes in skillet,
turning once, until slightly pink in center.
Serves 4

(recipe: www.tasteandtellblog.com)
————————————

Crockpot Bacon & Bean Soup

6 slices bacon, chopped small
16 oz. dried Great Northern Beans,
soaked*
1 (32 oz) can chicken broth
1 whole onion, diced
3-5 whole carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic minced
1/2 tsp. dried thyme
1/2 tsp. dried rosemary
1/2 tsp. black pepper
kosher salt, to taste
–
Cook chopped bacon in skillet until
crispy; drain. Drain soaking water from
beans & pour beans into 6-7 qt. crockpot.
Add broth, onion, carrots, garlic, thyme,
rosemary & pepper. Add additional water
as needed to cover beans by 1 inch. Add
half of cooked bacon (refrigerate rest of
bacon for later). Cover & cook on Low
10-12 hours or High 6-8 hours until beans
are cooked through. Just before serving,
add rest of cooked bacon, stir & adjust
seasoning of salt/pepper. Serves 10

* You can either do the overnight
bean soak (OR) a ‘quick soak’ –
sort & rinse beans; add them to a big
pot of boiling water. Turn off heat, cover
& let stand until water is room temperature.
Drain soaking water off beans before using.

(recipe: crockpotladies.com)
———————————–

Best Ham Salad Ever

6 C. ham, (cooked), coarsely
ground*
4 eggs, hard-boiled/chopped
1 C. celery, finely chopped
1/2 C. onion, finely chopped
1/2 C. sweet pickle relish
1 C. mayonnaise
4 T. Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. dried basil
–
In large bowl combine all ingredients &
mix well. (this makes a 1/2 gallon
Tupperware container full).
Recipe can be halved.

*You can finely chop the ham if
you don’t have a food processor
or a meat grinder.

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
———————————-

Peanut Butter-Stuffed
Chocolate Crescent Rolls

1 tube crescent roll dough (8 count)
1/2 C. peanut butter
3/4 C. mini chocolate chips
powdered sugar
–
Preheat oven 375 degrees F.
Lightly spray a baking sheet
with nonstick cooking spray.
Separate dough into 8 preformed
triangles. Spread 1 heaping T.
peanut butter onto wide end of
triangle ( do not go all the way
to the edges of dough). Sprinkle
chocolate chips evenly over dough &
roll up, starting with wide end. Place
2 inches apart on prepared sheet.
Bake 9-11 minutes until dough is
lightly golden brown. Remove from
oven & immediately sprinkle tops
with powdered sugar. Serve warm.
Store any leftovers in air-tight
container at room temp. Slightly
re-heat in microwave, if desired.
Makes 8

NOTE: another commenter said
she used Nutella instead of
peanut butter & a dollop of
thick jam.

(recipe: southyourmouth.com)

======================

Not much new going on – glad that,
so far, I don’t have anywhere to go
today. Finished another book and
got the notice from the Library
that a brand new book I want to
read is ‘in’ – YAY! Love the library
‘Hold’ system where you can ask
for a book, even if it’s not in your
local  library and they will put out
a request to have it delivered to
your local library.

Started a new medium yellow baby
blanket – simple pattern, should go
fairly fast. (the ladies in the library
knit group really liked the pattern).

Have a great day & STAY WARM!!!

Hugs;

Pammie

and now for SPRING!

Even though it’s kind of gloomy & wet out (34 degrees F.) my heart is looking forward to SPRING! Looking at our weather forecast for the next few days, you certainly wouldn’t say that Spring/warmer weather is coming – we’re looking at rain & possible snow but I’m determined to be SKEPTICAL! (or crazy – you pick). Spring is MY season – I love looking forward to seeing new growth – tiny flowers pushing up from what was frozen earth a month ago; hearing the birds singing (how I’ve missed that!) and the possibility of seeing our rabbits (they live in a wild blackberry bramble in our yard). I know Spring is just around the corner and I’m excited to greet it!

I tried the No-Bake Oreo dessert I posted a few posts ago and it was a BIG hit! I think if I make it again I’ll just throw the whole Oreo cookies in the food processor – putting them in a ziplock bag & smashing them wasn’t the best solution (in  my opinion) – I ended up getting out my big rolling pin & smashing them with that – it worked but the food processor would have been easier.

============

Crockpot Strawberry Shortcake

2 1/4 C. pancake mix
3/4 C. sugar, divided
2/3 C. milk
3 T. applesauce
1 qt. strawberries, hulled/sliced
–
optional garnish: Cool Whip, thawed
–
Spray insides of crockpot with
nonstick cooking spray. In large
bowl mix pancake mix, 1/2 C. sugar,
milk & applesauce until you have a
dough. Gently press dough into bottom
of crockpot. Cover & cook on High
1 hour 15 minutes (until center of
dough is ‘done’ – a wooden toothpick
inserted into center of dough comes
out clean). Gently toss strawberries
with remaining 1/4 C. sugar in a
separate bowl. Turn shortcake out
onto a plate. Cut shortcake into
pieces & spoon berries over top.
Top with Cool Whip, if desired.
Serves 8

(recipe: recipesthatcrock.com)
——————————

Italian Easter Pie

2 (9-inch, each) rolled, refrigerated
pie crusts (from 14.1 oz pkg)
3 eggs
1/4 C. grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1 (15 oz) tub ricotta cheese
1/2 C. shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 C. chopped, cooked ham
1/2 C. chopped genoa salami
1/2 C. chopped pepperoni slices
–
Preheat oven 325 degrees F.
Unroll 1 pie crust & place in 9″
deep round cake pan, pressing
crust firmly on bottom & up sides
of pan. In large bowl whisk eggs,
Parm. cheese, garlic powder & pepper.
Add ricotta & mozz. cheese; mix well.
Stir in ham, salami & pepperoni until
thoroughly combined – pour into pan.
Cover mixture with remaining 1 pie
crust & pinch edges together to seal –
flute edges. Using a knife, cut four
1 inch slits in top (to vent).
In small bowl whisk egg & water – brush
top of crust with egg wash.
Bake 55-60 minutes until a knife
inserted into center comes out clean &
top is golden brown. Let stand 15
minutes before serving. Serves 6

(recipe: mrfood.com)
———————————-
3-Bean Salad

2 (15 oz, ea) cans chick peas
2 (15 oz, ea) cans red kidney beans,
drained/rinsed
2 (15 oz, ea) cans cut green beans, drained
1 (4 oz) jar diced pimentos, with juice
2 onions, diced

Dressing:

1 C. cider vinegar
1 C. white sugar
2/3 C. olive oil (or oil of your choice)
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. black pepper
–
Place all beans in a colander & rinse
well. In a bowl place sugar, vinegar, oil,
minced garlic salt/pepper – mix well.
Place beans in a large bowl; add chopped
onion & pimentos. Pour dressing over all
& stir well to coat. Cover & refrigerate
several hours (or overnight). NOTE: a
few hours before serving, stir well again &
return to fridge. Will keep at least a week
in fridge.

Poster says: this makes a large bowl –
perfect for a cookout or snacking all
week long. You can easily divide this
recipe in half, if you prefer less.

(recipe: southernplate.com)
—————————
Baked Pimento Cheese Dip
in a Bread Bowl

8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/2 C. mayonnaise
1 1/2 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
1 (8 oz) jar pimiento peppers, drained
1 tsp. cayenne pepper
kosher salt/ground black pepper
1 round loaf of bread
–
sliced green onions, for serving
butter crackers, for dipping
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
In large bowl combine cream
cheese, mayonnaise, Cheddar
cheese, pimiento & cayenne –
mix & season with salt/pepper.
Slice top off of bread; using your
hands, scoop out the bread
insides (reserve), leaving a thin
outer crust. Place bread on a
baking sheet & spoon cheese
mixture into bread bowl. Bake
20 minutes until warmed through
& bubbly. Garnish with green
onions & serve hot.
You can use the scooped out
bread pieces for dippers or
crackers. Serves 6

(recipe: delish.com)
——————————

Easy French Onion Soup

1 large onion (yellow or red)
2 thick slices French bread
3 slices Swiss cheese
1/4 tsp. black pepper
3 C. beef broth
pinch salt
1 bay leaf
2 T. butter
–
Melt butter over medium-high heat
in medium sauepan. Peel & quarter
onion, then slice thinly. Place onion
in pan, add salt & cook, stirring
occasionally until caramelized, 8-10
minutes. Add beef broth, pepper &
bay leaf – bring to a boil, reduce heat
to Low & cook 10 minutes. Heat broiler
to High & toast both sides of bread.
Remove bay leaf from soup & ladle into
oven-proof bowls. Place bread on top
of soup then top each bowl with 1 1/2
slices cheese. Place bowls on a baking
sheet & broil 3-4 minutes until cheese
is bubbly & begins to brown. Remove &
serve. Serves 2

(recipe: 1krecipes.com)
———————————-
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Pasta

8 oz. linguine pasta
2 T. olive oil
6 T. butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. red pepper flakes
1 1/4 lb. large shrimp
salt/pepper
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
4 C. baby spinach
1/2 C. Parmesan cheese
2 T. parsley, chopped
1 T. lemon juice
–
In large pot cook pasta accordg.
to pkg. directions; drain. Using
same pot, heat oil & 2 T. butter;
add garlic & red pepper flakes;
cook until fragrant. Add shrimp,
salt/pepper (to taste) & cook
until shrimp start to turn pink.
Add Ital. seasoning & spinach –
cook until spinach wilts. Add
pasta back into pot with
remaining butter, Parm. cheese &
parsley – stir & cook until butter
melts. Add lemon juice just
before serving – serve hot.
Serves 6

(recipe: yummly.com)
——————————-
Crockpot Pepper Steak

16 oz. beef stew meat
2 red bell peppers, seeded/
cut into strips
2 green bell peppers, seeded/
cut into strips
3 T. Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 can beef broth
1 can stewed tomatoes
1 tsp. salt
1 C. flour
–
In large bowl mix flour & salt;
rub meat with mixture. In a
skillet on medium-high heat add
oil; add meat, garlic, pepper strips.
Cook until meat starts to brown.
Remove meat & peppers from
skillet to crockpot. Ad stewed
tomatoes to skillet (with juice)
& beef broth. Gradually stir in
flour while stirring to make a
gravy – pour over meat in
crockpot. Cover & cook on Low
8 hours.

(recipe: facebook)
—————————

4-Ingredient Pecan Balls

1/2 C. unsalted butter (1 stick),
softened
2 T. sugar
1 C. flour
1 heaping cup chopped pecans
1/4 tsp. salt
–
optional chocolate drizzle:
1/2 C. semisweet chocolate chips
–
Preheat oven 275 degrees F.
Cream butter, sugar & flour using
an elec. mixer. Fold in nuts & salt –
stir to combine. (mixture will be
crumbly but will stick to itself).
Roll dough into small balls (about
1/2 inch) & place on ungreased
cookie sheet (you can wet your
hands to keep dough from
sticking to you.) Bake 45 minutes.
Let cool completely on sheet before
transferring to air tight container.
Will keep up to 1 week on counter or
in pantry.

Chocolate Drizzle:
Place chocolate chips in a microwave
safe bowl; microwave 1 minute. Stir
& microwave in 30-second intervals
until chocolate is melted & can be
stirred together. Drizzle over cooled
pecan balls or dunk balls in melted
chocolate. Makes 22 balls

(recipe: iwashyoudry.com)

==================

We had a nice, quiet Easter dinner – THIS time
(with my son’s insisting on reducing the total
foods/appetizers) it was very manageable!
The other grandma brought appetizers (a few
too many, but HEY! It’s her thing), we had ham,
garlic mashed potatoes, green bean casserole,
croissants, the Oreo dessert & brownies – MORE
than enough food for 9 people. I was going to
cook the ham I bought Friday but son sent home
ham, so I’ll table that for now.  Was pleasantly
surprised to find that I didn’t gain any pounds
over the dinner (usually I put on 2+ lbs) YAY!

Here is the heavier cream baby blanket I just
finished; am going to save it for the Detroit
Veterans Hospital’s baby shower in September.

 

I spent some time yesterday attempting to choose
another pattern to start another blanket, but
nothing I tried really ‘spoke’ to me. I have a lovely
worsted weight medium yellow yarn and want to
find a nice pattern for it. It will come, sometimes
I just need to NOT think about it and then it becomes
easier! (Believe me, with all the knitting books AND
all the patterns I’ve copied from the internet, I’m
not at a loss for patterns – it’s just picking the right
one to tickle my fancy at the time.)

Hope your Easter weekend/holiday was lovely.
Today is babysitting the 1 yr old grandson who’s
learned more (challenging) ‘tricks’ – watching
him interact with the other grandparents and
seeing what’s ‘acceptable’ for his behavior
means I’m going to have a CHALLENGING day
today, for sure! It’s interesting (I ‘guess’ I’ll use
that word) to see the different parenting styles;
I’ve always been a safety nut when it comes to
babies – giving a baby that doesn’t have back
teeth to chew with a big chunk of ham is NOT
my idea of a good idea! Or an entire jumbo
black olive! (Yes, the olive will break down
easier than the ham, but the idea that “He’ll
spit it out if he can’t swallow it” is a REALLY
RISKY idea!) Let’s just say that ‘enduring’
the different grandparenting styles was
not enjoyable – I just kept watching to make
sure he didn’t choke!

Enjoy your day!

Hugs;

Pammie

Getting ready for Easter dinner!

Went to my library knit group this morning then off to two grocery stores to purchase food for the upcoming Easter dinner at my son’s house. Was pleased when the cashier at Kroger said: “You saved $30.00 – WOW!” – guess it’s just being aware of where the savings on foods you need are. This year my son (oldest/Exec. chef) said he wants to pare down the dinner a bit. It ‘was’ getting a bit over the top at Christmas – WAaaaaaay too much food and he doesn’t have space to store all the leftovers (don’t think anyone even took any home, either!). With that in mind, he asked that we just do: mashed potatoes (his Dad’s specialty), green bean casserole, croissants, black olives & a dessert . . . HEY  – THAT I can do! (I also bought a small spiral/fully cooked ham for us to have AFTER Easter – love getting a good deal on that.) I didn’t know it but the cashier mentioned that KROGER is having a HUGE sale on TURKEYS (she said one guy came in & bought 30 frozen turkeys!) WOW! Maybe (just maybe) I might consider getting one to freeze – we’ll see. (I kind of wondered why they had such a HUGE display of frozen turkeys when it’s usually HAM that’s featured at Easter! Now I know!)

====

Finally finished the ‘donated peach colored’ squares afghan – took it to library knit group & they liked it.

I didn’t have a lot of room to spread it out so it’s kind of ‘bunchy’ but it will work just fine for a baby.

===========

Pineapple-Orange Pretzel Squares

2 1/2 C. crushed pretzels
2 sticks butter, melted
1 C. plus 3 T. sugar, divided
1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple,
with juice reserved
1 (4 serving size) pkg. instant
vanilla pudding mix
1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges,
drained
–
Preheat oven 375 degrees F.
Spray 9 X 13″ baking dish with
nonstick cooking spray. In medium
bowl combine pretzels, butter &
3 T. sugar – press mixture onto
bottom of baking dish. Bake
10 minutes – let cool. In large bowl
using an elec. mixer, beat cream
cheese & 1 C. sugar until smooth.
Fold in Cool Whip – spread mixture
evenly over pretzel crust. In medium
bowl combine pineapple with juice &
pudding mix until thoroughly
combined. Gently stir in oranges &
spread over cream cheese layer. Cover
& chill at least 4 hours until firm.
Cut into squares & serve. Serves 12

(recipe: mrfood.com)
——————————–

7-Layer Fresh Salad

4 C. loosely packed torn
romaine lettuce
1 C. sliced radishes
2 C. frozen peas, thawed
1 red pepper, seeded/
chopped
5 hard-cooked eggs, quartered
4 green onions, chopped
1 C. shredded sharp Cheddar
cheese
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 C. mayonnaise
1/2 C. sour cream
1 T. sugar
–
In large clear bowl place lettuce.
Cover with layers of next 7 ingredients.
Mix remaining ingredients until blended;
spread over salad, completely covering
top layer. Refrigerate several hours –
toss just before serving.
Serves 10 (1 C. each)

(recipe: kraft.com)
——————————–

Apple Coleslaw

3 C. chopped cabbage
1 carrot, scraped & shredded
2 apples, unpeeled/chopped
(poster used 1 red & 1 green
Delicious)
1/4 – 1/2 C. chopped onion
(poster used purple – can use any)
1 tsp. celery seeds or 1/2 C. chopped
celery
1/2 C. mayonnaise or Miracle Whip
2 T. honey
1 T. granulated sugar
2 tsp. white vinegar
1/8 tsp. black pepper
pinch salt
–
In large bowl combine cabbage,
shredded carrot, chopped apples,
onion & celery – toss. In another
bowl whisk together mayo, honey,
sugar, vinegar, pepper/salt. Pour
mixture over slaw & mix well
using a spoon. Refrigerate 2- 3
hours before serving,
Makes about 4 C. (or 8 servings)

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
———————————-

Southern Pea Salad

1 (16 oz) pkg. frozen sweet peas, thawed
(uncooked)
2 eggs, hard boiled/peeled/chopped
4-6 slices bacon, cooked crisp/crumbled-
(or 1 C. cooked/chopped ham)
1/2 C. chopped green (or regular) onion
1 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. celery seeds (OR) 1/2 C. chopped
celery
dash cayenne powder
1/2 C. mayonnaise
1/2 C. sour cream
–
In a large bowl combine peas, eggs,
bacon, onion, cheese, pepper/salt,
garlic powder, celery (seeds or regular)
& cayenne – mix in mayo & sour cream.
Refrigerate a few hours. Serves 6-8

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
—————————-

Baked Ham in Cheese Crust

1 (5 lb) fully cooked ham
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple,
drained
1 C. (4 oz) shredded Swiss cheese
1 C. plain bread crumbs
6 T. (3/4 stick) butter, melted
2 T. dry mustard
–
Preheat oven 325 degrees F.
Spray a roasting pan with nonstick
cooking spray; place ham in pan.
In large bowl combine remaining
ingredients – mix well. Using your
hands, form a crust by patting
pineapple mixture over ham,
completely covering top & sides
(except for cut side). Bake 1 to
1 1/4 hours or until ham is heated
through & crust is golden. Slice
& serve. Serves 10

(recipe: mrfood.com)
———————-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts

1/4 C. olive oil
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1 lb. Brussels Sprouts, trimmed &
cut in half.
–
Preheat oven 425 degrees F.
In large bowl combine oil, garlic
powder, onion powder, salt/pepper.
Add Sprouts & toss gently to evenly
coat. Spread sprouts evenly on
rimmed baking sheet & bake
25-30 minutes until tender &
browned, turning once halfway
through cooking time. Serves 6

(recipe: mrfood.com)
——————————–

Cold Yogurt Cucumber Soup

1 large English cucumber, peeled/
finely diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp. salt (more, to taste)
2 T. olive oil (optional)
2-3 T. chopped fresh dill
2 C. plain Greek yogurt
2 C. cold water
–
In large, deep bowl combine
cucumber, garlic, salt, oil & dill.
Add yogurt & stir to combine.
Dilute with cold water, mixing
well, making sure there are no
lumps from yogurt. Add more salt
if needed. Refrigerate at least
30 minutes. Serves 4

(recipe: cookinglsl.com)
————————————
Crockpot Corn Casserole

8 oz. cream cheese, softened
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 C. sugar
1 (8.5 oz) box Jiffy corn muffin mix
2 1/2 C. frozen corn
1 (16 oz) can creamed corn
1 C. milk
2 T. butter, melted
1 tsp. seasoned salt
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
–
Spray insides of crockpot with
nonstick cooking spray. In a bowl
combine cream cheese, eggs &
sugar. Mix in muffin mix &
remaining ingredients (mix well).
Pour into crockpot, smooth top
evenly. Cover & cook on High
2-4 hours. Serves 8

(recipe: recipesthatcrock.com)
————————

Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie

Crust:

3/4 C. graham cracker crumbs
1/4 C. granulated sugar
2 T. brown sugar
4 T. melted butter

Filling:

1 1/2 C. heavy cream
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
3/4 C. granulated sugar
1 C. creamy peanut butter
1 T. vanilla

Chocolate Topping:

1/2 C. heavy cream
1 C. semi-sweet chocolate chips
–
Crust:
In large bowl blend graham crumbs,
4 T. sugar, brown sugar & melted
butter until fully combined. Press
mixture into a 9″ pie plate, covering
bottom completely & pushing crumbs
1/2 inch up sides of plate. Place crust
in freezer while making rest of filling.

Filling:

In a bowl whip 1 1/2 C. heavy cream
until it forms stiff peaks. Refrigerate
while making rest of filling.
In large bowl beat cream cheese until
smooth. Add sugar & mix until blended.
Add peanut butter & vanilla – mix well.
Fold whipped cream into peanut butter
mixture, blending well. Pour filling into
prepared crust & place back in freezer.

Chocolate topping:

In small saucepan (with a lid) slowly
bring remaining 1/2 C. heavy cream to
a boil (being careful not to scald it). Turn
off heat & add chocolate chips, pushing
chips into the cream until almost
completely covered. Place lid on pan &
let stand on stove. After 10 minutes, stir
until chips are melted & fully blended
into cream. Cool to room temperature,
then pour sauce over pie. Place back
in freezer 30 minutes before serving.

NOTE: If serving pie more than half hour
after final preparation, store in freezer.
Thaw 20 minutes before serving  for a
frozen, ice-cream-like consistency. If
you are having difficulty cleanly removing
pie crust from plate, submerge the very
bottom of pie dish in hot tap water (about
1/2 inch water) to loosen crust being
careful not to get water in pie itself.)
OR – thaw for longer, in fridge for a
gooey, soft pie. Serves 8-10

(recipe: afamilyfeast.com)
=================

Our weather is still holding out – sunny &
in the 40’s so I can’t complain. Gas prices
are up a little: $2.59/9 (but still, not bad).

Tomorrow we are making the trip to visit
our good friend (who also does our taxes
AND is also our Sunday School teacher!).
It’s always a fun trip & we go out for lunch
afterwards, so it’s a Win-Win situation.

Have a GREAT day!

Hugs;

Pammie

 

Happy Tuesday!

Well, it’s raining and supposed to continue for most of this week – Hey! It beats SNOW! My cousin in Iowa ended up with 9 inches of the white stuff this past weekend – SO glad we skirted that one!

=============

Lemon Fruit Cake

1 (16.5 oz) box (Duncan Hines
Signature Lemon Supreme Moist
cake mix
1 (8 oz) can pineapple tidbits
in 100% pineapple juice,drained
– reserve 1/4 C. juice
1 (8 oz) can mandarin oranges/
drained – reserve 1/4 C. juice
1/2 C. milk
4 eggs
1/3 C. oil
1 C. shredded coconut
–
Glaze:
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Generously spray a 10 inch
Bundt pan (see note) with
nonstick cooking spray. In large
bowl combine cake mix, saved
juices from pineapple/oranges,
milk, eggs & oil – combine using
an elec. mixer. Fold in pineapple
tidbits, mandarin oranges &
coconut using a spoon. Pour
batter into prepared pan.
Bake 55-60 minutes until center
tests done. Cool 10 minutes in
pan then remove to wire rack
to cool completely.

Glaze:

1 C. powdered sugar
3-4 T. milk
1 tsp. vanilla
–
Place sugar in a bowl; whisk
in milk & vanilla until mixture
is smooth (you can add more
or less milk/sugar to get the
consistency you want. Drizzle
glaze over top & sides of
cooled cake. (you can also
place a few maraschino cherries
on top for garnish).

NOTE: You can also bake this
in a 9 X 13″ baking pan but
you will have to cut the baking
time – test doneness with a
wooden toothpick inserted into
center. (poster did not give exact
baking time for 9 X 13″ pan)

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
——————————-

Creamy Tomato/Tarragon Soup

3 T. olive oil
2 medium onions, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can whole plum tomatoes
1 (12 oz) can vegetable stock (or
chicken)
2 tsp. salt (more, to taste, if needed)
1 tsp. fresh ground black pepper
1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
(optional)
1/4 – 1/2 C. Greek plain yogurt
1 T. fresh tarragon, chopped
–
Add oil to large pot or Dutch oven &
bring to light simmer over medium-
high heat. Add onions & saute until
soft, about 6 minutes. Stir in garlic –
cook 1-2 minutes. Add tomatoes &
juice – lightly break large tomatoes
up with a wooden spoon. Add stock &
bring to simmer. Add salt/black pepper
& crushed red pepper (if using). Reduce
heat to Low & simmer 20 minutes.
Puree using blender, adding soup back
to pot & return to light boil over Low
heat 1-2 minutes. Stir in yogurt &
tarragon. Garnish each bowl with a
dollop of sour cream & a little tarragon,
if desired. Serves 4

(recipe: bakerbynature.com)
———————————-

Maple Baked Beans with Sausage

2 (28 oz, ea) cans Bush’s original baked
beans
1 lb. mild pork sausage
1/2 C. chopped white onion
2 T. brown sugar
2 T. ketchup
2 T. prepared mustard
1/3 C. maple syrup
–
Preheat oven 300 degrees F.
Brown sausage in skillet; drain.
Combine sausage with all other
ingredients in a casserole dish.
Cover & bake 2 hours until desired
consistency. Serves 8-10

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
——————————-

Apricot-glazed Turkey Breast

1/2 C. apricot preserves
1/4 C. balsamic vinegar
1/4 tsp. pepper
dash salt
1 bone-in turkey breast (5 lb)
–
Preheat oven 325 degrees F.
Combine preserves, vinegar, pepper/
salt in a bowl. Place turkey breast on
a rack in a large shallow roasting pan.
Bake, uncovered, 1 1/2 to 2 hours
until a meat thermometer reads
170 degrees F., basting with glaze
every 30 minutes. (Cover loosely
with foil if turkey browns too quickly).
Cover & let stand 15 minutes before
slicing. Serves 15

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
——————————-
Roasted Herb & Lemon Cauliflower

1 medium heat cauliflower, cut into
florets (about 6 C.)
4 T. olive oil, divided
1/4 C. minced fresh parsley
1 T. minced fresh rosemary
1 T. minced fresh thyme
1 tsp. grated lemon peel
2 T. lemon juice
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
–
Preheat oven 425 degrees F.
Place cauliflower in an ungreased
15 X 10 X 1″ baking pan. Drizzle
with 2 T. oil & toss to coat. Roast
20-25 minutes until golden brown
& tender, stirring occasionally. In
a small bowl combine remaining
ingredients; stir in remaining oil.
Transfer cauliflower to a large bowl;
drizzle with herb mixture & toss to
combine. Serves 4

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
———————————-

Crockpot Sour Cream & Bacon
Chicken

8 slices bacon
1/3 C. diced onion
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 (10 oz) can Cheddar cheese soup
1 C. sour cream
1/3 C. flour
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
salt/pepper, to taste
–
Cooked rice, egg noodles or mashed
potatoes
–
Cut each chicken breast in half to
make 2 long/narrow chicken tender-
shaped pieces. Place bacon in large
skillet & cook over medium heat until
halfway cooked. Immediately wrap
a slice of bacon around each chicken
piece while bacon is still pliable –
place in crockpot. Add onion to skillet
& cook in bacon fat 2 minutes; remove
with slotted spoon & place in crockpot.
In medium bowl whisk both soups, sour
cream, flour & garlic powder – pour
over chicken. Cover & cook on Low
5-6 hours until chicken is completely
cooked through. Remove chicken from
crockpot & place on serving platter.
Whisk sauce well & taste for seasoning-
adjust salt/pepper, to taste. Serve over
cooked rice, egg noodles or mashed
potatoes.

(recipe: crockpotmoms.com)
——————————–

 

Blackberry Orange Cake

1/2 C. butter, softened
1 C. sugar, divided
1 large egg
1 tsp. grated orange peel
1 1/2 C. plus 1 T. flour, divided
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/8 tsp. salt
1/2 C. sour cream (or plain
yogurt)
2 C. fresh blackberries
–
powdered sugar (optional)
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray & flour a 9 inch springform
pan. In large bowl cream butter &
3/4 C. sugar until light & fluffy. Beat
in egg & orange peel. In another
bowl whisk 1 1/2 C. flour, baking
soda & salt – add to creamed
mixture alternately with sour cream,
beating well after each addition –
pour into prepared pan.
In a bowl toss blackberries with
remaining flour & arrange over
batter in pan  – sprinkle top with
remaining sugar. Bake 40-45 minutes
until a toothpick inserted into center
of cake comes out clean. Loosen
sides from pan using a knife; remove
rim from pan. Cool on a wire rack.
Serve warm or at room temp.
If desired, dust top with powdered
sugar before serving. Serves 10

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)

==================

Went out to lunch with a friend yesterday –
celebrated her 84th birthday. I decided to
try something I’ve never had before: Fish
tacos – they were tasty!

Today is babysitting my youngest grandson-
his Momma is having 2 teeth extracted and,
for some reason, she thinks she will be able
to just come home & go to work (as a waitress)!
I’m thinking that probably won’t be the case.
Her Mom is driving her this morning – I’m
guessing it will be her Mom taking care of HER
and I’ll be watching the baby – all at their house –
we’ll see.

Tonight is Knit Night – I’m just finishing up the
sewing in ‘ends’ on the ‘donated peach squares’
baby afghan; because it’s a thick/heavy one, I’ll
hold onto it until the Fall for the Detroit Vets
baby shower. It was a good effort ‘saving’ some
squares a friend knit and making them into
something useful.

Have a great day!

Hugs;

Pammie