Turkey Roll-Ups

Ingredients:

1 (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened

1 bunch green onion, finely chopped

1 cup chopped turkey

2 packages refrigerated crescent rolls

1 cup seasoned panko bread crumbs

1/4 cup butter, melted

Turkey Gravy for dipping, if desired (warmed)

Method:

Preheat oven according to crescent package directions. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, onions and turkey. Mix well with a large spoon. Open rolls and tear where perforated. Cut each roll in half to produce 2 triangles. Spoon a small amount of cream cheese mixture in the center of each triangle. Wrap crescent roll around filling and brush with butter. Roll in panko bread crumbs to completely cover roll. Bake according to crescent roll directions. Serve warm. Makes 24-36 rolls (depends on the original amount of rolls in can.)

Saucy Links

Ingredients:

• 2 packages Lil' Smokies Sausages (**sale** Hillshire Farm 16 oz. $3.00)
• 1 can (16 oz.) jellied cranberry sauce
• 1 jar (12 oz.) chili sauce (I prefer Heinz)

Method:

In a large saucepan combine cranberry sauce and chili sauce. Over medium heat, cook stirring occasionally until sauce is smooth and heated through. Add sausages and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and cook until sausages are heated through. Serve warm.

Mini Cinnamon Cannolis with Cream Cheese

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 10 flour tortillas
  
• 1 (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
  
• 1 cup milk
• 1 small package (about 1 oz.) instant white chocolate pudding (or flavor of your choice)
  
• 2 cups whipped topping
  
• ¼ cup milk chocolate chips, melted

Method:

In a small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon. Spray each tortilla, one at a time with nonstick cooking spray. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar. Turn tortillas over and repeat on other side. Cut each tortilla into 4 wedges. Roll each wedge around a cylindrical shaped piece of aluminum foil that has been sprayed with a nonstick cooking spray. Use a toothpick to secure ends. Bake at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool completely before removing from baking pan and before removing inner foil. In a small bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. In another bowl, beat milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes. Beat in cream cheese on low speed until combined. Fold in whipped topping. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 1 hour, best if done overnight. Carefully remove foil from cannoli and fill with about 3 Tablespoons cream cheese mixture. Drizzle with melted chocolate and refrigerate 3-5 minutes or until chocolate is set. Store in refrigerator. Yield 40.

Chicken and Wild Rice Soup with Orange Cranberry Bread

Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of chicken soup
  
• 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
• 1 cup diced carrots
  
• 1 cup diced celery
• 2 packages (4 ounces each) long grain and wild rice mix with seasoning packets
• 5 cups chicken broth
  
• 5 cups water

Method:

Combine all ingredients in a grease 4 ½ -6 quart slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat 4-6 hours, or until rice is done. Do not overcook.

Cranberry Orange Bread

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup powdered milk
• 2 cups warm water
• 3 cups flour
• 1 1/3 cups sugar
• 1 Tablespoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• Zest of 1 large orange
  
• Juice from 1 large orange
  
• ¾ cup dried cranberries
• Cream cheese, if desired
  

Method:

In a bowl, dissolve powdered milk in warm water, then combine with 2 cups flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, baking soda, egg, and oil. Beat with an electric mixer 2 minutes on low speed. Add remaining flour sifted over the cranberries (this coats the berries so they won't all sink to the bottom of your bread), orange juice and zest. Beat until combined. Fold in cranberries. Pour batter into a spring-form pan that fits inside a large slow cooker. Cover with paper towels sandwiched between top of stoneware and lid. Cook on high heat 2-3 hours. (Check bread with a knife to be sure it is done, as it will not brown like regular bread does). Serve with cream cheese. Makes 10-15 servings.

Whole Cranberry Chicken

Ingredients:

• 3-4 pounds chicken pieces
• ¼ cup dried minced onion
• 1 can (16 ounces) whole berry cranberry sauce
  
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Combine all ingredients in a greased 3 ½ - 4 ½ quart slow cooker. Cover and cook on high heat 4 hours or on low heat 6-8 hours. Serve with baked potatoes, stuffing and green beans.

Polynesian Pork Chops

Ingredients:

• 4-6 lean pork chops
  
• 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple
  
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
  

Method:

Place pork chops in a greased 3 ½ - 5 quart slow cooker. Combine pineapple and barbecue sauce in a bowl and pour over meat. Cover and cook on high heat 3-4 hours or low heat 6-8 hours. Serve over hot cooked rice with steamed broccoli and fresh pineapple on the side.

Asiago Cheese Straws with Sun-dried Tomato Dipping Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package directions
• ½ cup grated Parmesan Cheese
• ½ cup grated Asiago Cheese
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Dipping Sauce Ingredients:

• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• ¾ cup sour cream
• 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup oil packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 2 Tablespoons minced fresh basil

Method:

Adjust oven racks to upper middle and lower middle positions. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. On a sheet of parchment paper, unfold puff pastry and sprinkle with cheeses and salt and pepper. Top with an additional sheet of parchment paper and press with a rolling pin until puff pastry is about a 10"square. Remove top parchment and cut pastry into ¾ inch strips. Twist strips gently and lay 1" apart on parchment paper. You may sprinkle with any cheese that has fallen off while twisting. Bake 10 minutes moving from middle bottom rack to upper middle rack half way through cooking. Cool 5 minutes and serve warm.

In a medium sized bowl, combine all ingredients and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve with cheese straws.

Neighbor Gift Idea: Homemade Hot Chocolate & Marshmellows

Homemade Marshmallows & Peeps

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  

Method:

Combine gelatin and 1/2 cup cold water in the bowl of an electric mixer with whisk attachment. Let it stand 30 minutes. Combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, salt and 1/2 cup of water in a small heavy saucepan; place over low heat and stir until sugar has dissolved. Wash down sides of pan with a wet pastry brush to dissolve sugar crystals.

Clip on a candy thermometer; raise heat to high. Cook syrup without stirring until it reaches 244 degrees (firm-ball stage). Immediately remove pan from heat. With mixer on low speed, slowly and carefully pour syrup into the softened gelatin. Increase speed to high; beat until mixture is very thick and white and has almost tripled in volume, about 15 minutes. Add vanilla; beat to incorporate. Generously dust an 8 x 12-inch glass baking pan with confectioners' sugar. Pour marshmallow mixture into pan. Dust with confectioners' sugar; let stand overnight, uncovered, to dry out. Cut marshmallows with sprayed and dusted cookie cutters for fun shapes. Lightly dust remaining sides with powdered sugar. Store in an airtight container up to 2 weeks.

Homemade Hot Chocolate

Ingredients:

• 1 pkg. (25 ounces) instant nonfat dry milk powder (about 10 2/3 cups)
• 1 jar (6 ounces) powdered nondairy creamer
  
• 2 cups powdered sugar
  
• 1 (16 ounces) can instant chocolate drink mix (such as Nestle Quick)
  
• 1 small package instant chocolate pudding

Method:

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients well. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Preparation Directions: Add 3 Tablespoons dry mix to 1 cup hot water. Stir well to dissolve.

Neighbor Gift Idea: Choco-holic Platter

Oreo Truffles

Ingredients:

• 1 package (1 lb.) Oreo cookies
  
• 1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese, room temperature
  
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 bag chocolate chips
  
• 1-2 teaspoons shortening (just enough to thin chocolate chips for dipping)

Method:

Using a food processor, grind cookies to a fine powder. With a mixer, blend cookie powder, cream cheese and vanilla extract until thoroughly mixed (there should be no white traces of cream cheese). Roll into small balls and place on wax-lined cookie sheet.

Refrigerate for 45 minutes or until firm. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
In double-boiler, melt milk chocolate and shortening. Dip balls and coat thoroughly. With slotted spoon, lift balls out of chocolate and let excess chocolate drip off. Place on parchment-lined cookie sheet. In separate double boiler, melt white chocolate. Using a fork, drizzle white chocolate over balls. Let cool. Store in airtight container, in refrigerator.

Peanut Butter Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sifted powdered sugar
  
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  
• 3 tablespoons butter or margarine, softened
  
• 1 bag chocolate chips
  
• 1-2 teaspoons shortening (just enough to thin chocolate chips for dipping)
• Finely chopped peanuts for garnish, if desired

Method:

Stir together powdered sugar, peanut butter and butter until well mixed. Shape peanut butter mixture into 1 inch balls, placing them on a baking sheet covered with waxed or parchment paper. Let balls stand for 20 minutes until dry. Melt the chocolate chips and shortening in a double boiler. Drop balls one at a time in melted chocolate. Using a fork, remove from the chocolate, letting excess chocolate drip off. Place back on the waxed paper. Let dry about 1 minute, then sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired. Let stand until dry. Store tightly covered in a cool dry place.

Chocolate Mint Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 ¼ cups butter, softened
• 2 cups sugar
  
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups flour
  
• ¾ cup baking cocoa
  
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 32 round thin chocolate-covered mint patties
  

Method:

In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well. Beat in vanilla. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt. Gradually beat into the creamed butter mixture. Drop by the tablespoon about 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-9 minutes or until puffy and tops are cracked. Invert the cookies onto cooling rack. Immediately place unwrapped mint on the top and flip half of cookie over to create a fold. Press lightly to seal. Cool completely. Makes 32 mint chocolate sandwiches.

Chocolate-Dipped Candy Canes or Oreos

Ingredients:

• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or vanilla baking chips
  
• 2 teaspoons shortening
• 12 candy canes or peppermint sticks or Double Stuft Oreo cookies
  

Method:

Line a cookie sheet with parchment or wax paper. In a double boiler melt chocolate chips and shortening until smooth. Tip boiler so that the chocolate goes to one side of the pan. Dip one candy cane/Oreo at a time on one side only. Place on parchment or waxed paper and allow to dry partially about 2 minutes. Sprinkle with crushed candy or sprinkles and allow to dry completely.

Neighbor Gift Idea: Popcorn Flavors

Cinnamon Popcorn

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 Tablespoon sugar
  
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup popcorn ¼ cup popcorn
• ¼ cup oil
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
  

Method:

In a small bowl, combine first 5 ingredients and set aside. Put oil, popcorn and remaining sugar. Fasten the lid of the "Whirly Pop" popcorn maker. Turn on high heat. Popping should start in about 1 ½ minutes. Continue stirring until popping almost stops. Remove quickly from heat and add lime mixture that was set aside earlier. Close lid and stir until mixed. Pour into large bowl and continue stirring with a large spoon until cooled.

Key-Lime Pie Popcorn

Ingredients:

• 1 Tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 2 Tablespoons freshly grated lime zest
• 1 Tablespoon green colored sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup coarsely chopped graham crackers
  
• ¼ cup popcorn
  
• ¼ cup oil
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
  

Method:

In a small bowl, combine first 5 ingredients and set aside. Put oil, popcorn and remaining sugar. Fasten the lid of the "Whirly Pop" popcorn maker. Turn on high heat. Popping should start in about 1 ½ minutes. Continue stirring until popping almost stops. Remove quickly from heat and add lime mixture that was set aside earlier. Close lid and stir until mixed. Pour into large bowl and continue stirring with a large spoon until cooled.

Marshmallow-Peppermint Popcorn

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup finely crushed peppermint candy canes
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup popcorn
  
• ¼ cup oil
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
  

Method:

In a small bowl, combine first 3 ingredients and set aside. Put oil, popcorn and remaining sugar. Fasten the lid of the "Whirly Pop" popcorn maker. Turn on high heat. Popping should start in about 1 ½ minutes. Continue stirring until popping almost stops. Remove quickly from heat and add peppermint-marshmallow mixture that was set aside earlier. Close lid and stir until mixed. Pour into large bowl and continue stirring with a large spoon until cooled.

Cheese Popcorn

Ingredients:

• 2 Tablespoons oil
• ½ cup popcorn
  
• 1 packet cheese from box of dry Macaroni and Cheese

Method:

Pop the popcorn as usual, on the stovetop, or hot air popper. Pour into a large bowl and sprinkle with cheese seasoning.

Fall Lentil Soup with Potato Rolls

Ingredients:

• 1 Tablespoon oil
• 1 carrot diced
  
• 2 stalks celery, diced
  
• 1 large onion, chopped
• ½ teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 pound hot Italian sausage
  
• 8 cups chicken broth
  
• 2 (14.5 ounces) cans crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups dried lentils, washed according to package directions
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• ½ teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 bag potato rolls
  
• 1 bag baby carrots
  
• 1 bottle ranch dressing
  

Method:

In a large saucepan, heat oil. Add carrot, celery, onion and minced garlic. Saute until tender. Remove vegetables from the pan and add Italian sausage to the pan. Brown the drain off fat. In a large stockpot, pour chicken broth, saute'd vegetables and the sausage. Add tomatoes with juice, and lentils. Season with salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, thyme, fennel seeds and bay leaf. Simmer until the lentils are tender, 30-45 minutes. Remove bay leaf before serving. Serve with potato rolls from bakery and baby carrots with ranch dressing for dipping.

Spiral Ham with Fruit Glaze

Ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked spiral sliced ham (about 4 pounds)
  
• ½ can (8 ounces) unsweetened crushed pineapple, drained
  
• ¼ cup apricot jam
• 2 teaspoons spicy brown mustard
  
• 1 tea 6-8 medium sized potatoes, peeled, and cut inch 1 inch cubes
  
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sour cream
  
• spoon prepared horseradish
• 3 pounds fresh broccoli spears
  
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 Tablespoon butter
  
• 4 ½ teaspoons cornstarch
• ¼ cup cold water
• 2 egg yolks, beaten
  
• 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoons grated lemon peel

• 5 ½ - 6 cups flour
  
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 Tablespoon quick rise yeast
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup canola oil
• 3 eggs
  
• 2 Tablespoons butter, melted
  

Method:

Place ham on a rack in a large roasting pan. Cover and bake at 325 for45 minutes. In a small bowl, combine pineapple, jam, mustard, and horseradish. Spread over ham and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 140. Makes 8-10 servings.

Place potatoes in a large pot and add enough water to cover potatoes. Sprinkle salt over into the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, cover and reduce heat to medium and cook 20-25 minutes or until fork tender. Remove from heat, drain and mash with a hand mixer or potato masher. Add sour cream and combine well. Serve warm.

Place broccoli in a large saucepan, add about 1 inch cold water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and cook for 5-8 minutes or until crisp tender. Meanwhile, in a small heavy saucepan, heat broth and butter until butter is melted. Dissolve cornstarch in cold water in a small bowl and add to broth mixture. Bring to a boil, cook and stir for 1 minute or until thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat, stir a small amount of hot mixture into egg yolks; return all to pan, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle boil; cook and stir 2 minutes longer. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and peel. Drain broccoli and serve with sauce.

In a large bowl, combine 3 cups flour, sugar, yeast and salt. In a small saucepan, heat milk and oil to 120-130 degrees. Add to dry ingredients, beat until just moistened. Add eggs, beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (dough will be sticky). Turn onto a floured surface, knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes. Divide dough into thirds. Roll each portion into a 12 inch circle, brush with butter. Cut each circle into 12 wedges. Roll up wedges from the wide end and place point end down 2 inches apart on baking sheets sprayed with nonstick spray. Bake at 400 for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans and cool on a wire rack. Makes 3 dozen.

Black Bean & Pumpkin Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cups chicken broth
  
• 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 2 ½ cups cooked chicken
• 1 can (15 ounces) solid pack pumpkin
  
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Tortilla Chips

• 1 fresh pineapple
• 1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping
  
• 1 container (4oz) strawberry yogurt

Method:

In a large skillet, saute the onion yellow pepper and garlic in oil until tender. Transfer to a large stock pot add additional ingredients except chips and bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes. Makes 10 servings.

Cut off outer edge of pineapple and then cut into spears. Serve with fruit dip mixture (see below).

In a small bowl, combine whipped topping and yogurt. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Recipe

2 Tbsp. active dry yeast
½ cup warm water
4 eggs
1 cup shortening
1 cup canned pumpkin
1 cup warm milk (110-115 degrees)
½ cup sugar
½ cup packed brown sugar
1/3 cup instant vanilla pudding mix
1/3 cup instant butterscotch pudding
1 teaspoon salt
7-8 cups flour

Filling:
¼ cup butter, melted
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Frosting:
Favorite cream cheese frosting
(I like the canned with 1 teaspoon vanilla added for that “homemade” taste)
Freshly ground cinnamon, optional

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the eggs, shortening, pumpkin, milk, sugars, pudding mixes, salt and 6 cups flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (it will be sticky). Turn onto a a floured surface; knead until smooth about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour. Punch dough down, divide in half. Roll each portion into a 12x8 inch rectangle and brush with melted butter. Combine brown sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle over dough. Roll up jelly-roll style Cut into 12 slices. Place cut side down in to greased 13x9 inch baking pans. (**If you want to freeze for later, see special note below**) Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes. Bake at 350 for 22-28 minutes or until golden brown and done. Frost with favorite cream cheese icing and sprinkle with freshly ground cinnamon.

**To freeze directions**: Place cut rolls on a cookie sheet sprayed with a cooking spray, or lined with parchment paper. Freeze rolls until frozen solid. When frozen, put in zipper seal freezer bags or vacuum seal until ready to use. When ready to use, place frozen rolls in a greased pan with desired amount of rolls, leave room for rising. Cover with sprayed plastic wrap and let rise overnight. Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes or until done. Frost while warm and serve.

Slow Cooker Cola Roast with Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients:

2.5 pound beef roast
1 envelope dry onion soup mix
2 cans (12 ounces each) cola
2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 ½ inch pieces
2 medium onions, cut into eighths
2 Tablespoons butter, melted
2 Tablespoons firmly packed brown sugar
2 Tablespoon pecans, coarsely chopped
½ teaspoon dried sage leaves
1 bag Distinctively Dole Salad

Method:

Place roast in a greased 4-5 quart slow cooker. Sprinkle with onion soup mix. Pour soda over the meat in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat 7-8 hours or on high heat 4 hours. DO NOT USE DIET COLA in this recipe!

Heat oven to 450 degrees. Place sweet potatoes and onions in a 9x13 inch pan, drizzle with butter and toss to coat. Bake uncovered 25-30 minutes, stirring once, until almost tender. Stir in brown sugar, pecans and sage. Bake 10-15 minutes longer or until coated and tender.

Prepare salad according to package directions and serve with Cola Roast.

Penne Pasta with Spicy Sauce w/ Cream Cheese Brownies

Ingredients:

• 1 package (16 oz.) penne pasta
• 1 can (28 oz.) fire roasted whole peeled plum tomatoes, undrained
• 2 Tablespoons olive or canola oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ cup freshly grated cheese
• 2 pounds fresh broccoli, cut into florets
  
• 3 Tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice (fresh is best)
• Salt and pepper to taste
  
• 1 loaf French bread
• 1 ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Brownie Ingredients

• ¾ cup flour
• ¾ cup sugar
• ¼ cup baking cocoa
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 3 Tablespoon butter, melted
• 2 Tablespoons water
• 1 egg
• 2 ounces reduced fat cream cheese
  
• 2 Tablespoons sugar
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla
• Powdered sugar, if desired
  

Method:

Cook and drain pasta as directed on package. Meanwhile in food processor or blender, place tomatoes with juice. Cover and process until coarsley chopped. Set aside. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook garlic, red pepper and parsley in oil about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until garlic starts to turn a golden color. Stir in chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Heat to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and simmer about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add pasta and ¼ cup of the cheese to tomato mixture. Cook another 3 minutes, tossing gently until pasta is coated with sauce. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and serve.

Steam broccoli until tender but firm, about 5-7 minutes. Heat butter in a heavy skillet over medium heat, add garlic and saute for about 1 minute. Add the steamed broccoli, lemon juice and salt and pepper to taste. Stir to coat and heat through. Serve warm.

Cut French bread into 1 inch slices. Butter one side and sprinkle with about 2 Tablespoons of shredded cheese. Place prepared slices on a large baking sheet. Bake at 425 degrees for 8-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden brown. Serve warm.

Brownie Instructions:

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spray 8x8 inch pan with a nonstick cooking spray. In a bowl, combine flour, ¾ cup sugar, cocoa, baking powder, and salt. Stir in melted butter, water and egg until dry ingredients are moistened. Spread in prepared pan. In a small bowl, mix cream cheese 2 Tablespoons sugar and vanilla. Drop small spoonfuls of cream cheese mixture over patter. Swirl with a knife. Bake 20-25 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean, when tested in brownie and not cream cheese. Cool completely, about 45 minutes. If desired sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.

Broccoli and Ham Stromboli w/ Old Fashioned Root Beer Floats

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
  
• 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
  
• ½ cup fully cooked ham, diced
  
• 2 ¼ cups chopped fresh broccoli
  
• 1 small onion, chopped
  
• ¼ cup minced fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• tomatoes
• ½ gallon vanilla ice cream
  
• 1 2-liter root beer
• 1 8oz. tub Whipped Topping
• 1 jar maraschino cherries

Method:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Unroll crescent dough and place triangles on a 12 inch pizza pan or stone, forming a ring with the pointed ends facing the outer edge on the pan, wide ends overlapping. Lightly press wide ends together. Combine the remaining ingredients, and spoon over the wide ends of rolls. Fold points over filling and tuck under wide ends. The filling will be visible and that is o.k. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Makes 6-8 servings.

Slice tomatoes about ¼ inch thick. Drizzle with olive oil and salt and pepper as desired.

In serving glasses, place desired amount of ice cream followed by desired amount of root beer. Repeat in each serving glass. Top each serving with a dollop of whipped topping and 1 maraschino cherry.

Caesar Burgers in a Pita

Ingredients:

• 1 ¼ pounds ground beef
• ½ cup creamy Caesar dressing
  
• 1 egg
  
• ½ cup bread crumbs
• 6 pita (pocket) bread halves
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 large tomato, diced
  
• 1 cucumber, diced
• Potato Chips

Method:

Heat grill to a medium high heat. In a medium bowl, mix ground beef, ¼ cup Caesar dressing, the egg and bread crumbs. (I prefer Panko Bread Crumbs, but regular will be fine.) Shape into 6 equal size patties (about ½ -inch thick). place patties on grill and cover grill. Cook on medium heat 7-10 minutes, turning only once or until center of patties is 160 degrees. During last minute, top each patty with cheese. If desired, place pita bread on grill for a minute to warm up or place in microwave. Fill pita halves with meat patty, remaining dressing, tomato and cucumber. Serve with Vegetable Spears and potato chips. Makes 6 servings.

Vegetable Spears: Cut desired vegetables into long "spears" or pieces. Serve in a glass with the vegetables standing up. I chose carrots, celery, and a red pepper for mine, however, you can choose vegetables your family enjoys. If desired, serve with salad dressing on the side for dipping.

Pork Ribs with Steamed Asparagus and Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 3-4 pounds boneless pork country style ribs
  
• 1 onion, sliced
  
• 2 cups barbecue sauce
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1 pound medium asparagus, tough ends trimmed
  
• Extra-virgin olive oil
• Sea salt and cracked black pepper
• 1/2 lemon, sliced paper thin
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
  
• 2 cups sour cream
• ½ cup butter
• ½ cup chopped onion
  
• 2 cans (10.75 ounces each) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs

Method:

Combine all ingredients in a greased 3 ½ - 5 quart slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat 8-10 hours. Makes 6-8 servings. Serve with steamed asparagus and potatoes (recipes follow)

Gently lay asparagus in a microwaveable dish. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper as desired. Place lemon and bay leaf over the top. Stretch plastic wrap over the dish, leaving one corner open for ventilation. Microwave on high 2 ½ - 4 minutes or until done.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl combine hash browns, sour cream, butter, onions, soup and cheese. Spread mixture evenly into a greased 13x 9 inch pan. Sprinkle bread crumbs over the top and bake uncovered 45-50 minutes or until hot in the middle. Makes 8-10 servings.

Teriyaki Beef & Pineapple Lettuce Wraps with Lo Mein

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
  
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Dash of black ground pepper
• 1 can (8 oz.) pineapple tidbits, drain and reserve liquid
  
• ¼ cup teriyaki glaze
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
• 2-3 Tablespoons sliced green onions
• ¼ cup diced red bell pepper
• 2 Boston lettuce heads, leaves carefully removed, washed thoroughly and dried
• 1 package linguine pasta, cooked until barely tender, drained and set aside
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
  
• 1 ½ cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
• 1 can (14 ounces) bean sprouts
• 1 bottle Stir Fry Sauce

Method:

In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until cooked through and no longer pink. Drain well. Salt and pepper to taste. In a small bowl, mix reserved pineapple juice, glaze and cornstarch until smooth. Stir mixture into ground beef. Cook and stir until thick and bubbly, stirring frequently. Stir in pineapple, green onions and peppers. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, until heated through. Spoon about ½ cup meat mixture into each lettuce leaf, roll up (if desired) and serve with Simple Lo Mein (Recipe follows). Makes 6 servings.

Lo Mein instructions:

Heat oil in an extra deep 12 inch skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots and mushrooms. Drain the sprouts, rinse under cold water and drain again. In a small bowl, combine Stir Fry Sauce ingredients. Add sprouts, stir fry sauce and noodles. Raise the heat to high and cook until the noodles are heated through and coated with sauce.

Honey and Dijon Chicken with Rice/Tomato Salad

Ingredients:

• 6 boneless skinless chicken
  
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
  
• 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 ½ cups pineapple juice
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup Dijon mustard
• 1/3 cup honey
• Hot Cooked Rice
  
• 5 roma tomatoes, chopped
  
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
  
• ¼ (or as desired) teaspoon salt
• 1 box Pillsbury Classic Brownies
  
• 1 box Junior Mints candy

Method:

In a small bowl, combine minced garlic cloves and thyme. Rub chicken with mixture and salt and pepper as desired. In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat and cook chicken until no longer pink. In a bowl, combine pineapple juice and water. When smooth, stir in mustard and honey. Pour mixture into skillet and bring to a boil. Cook and additional 2 minutes or until sauce is thickened. Serve with hot cooked rice and Fresh Tomato Salad (Recipe Follows)

Mix all ingredients in a medium sized bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Prepare brownies according to package directions. After removing from oven and brownies are still hot, sprinkle Junior Mints over the top of the brownies. Let sit a few minutes to melt and then spread on the top of the brownies with a knife.

Pork Chops with Potato Fans

Ingredients:
Marinade:

• 3 Tablespoons olive oil
• 4 teaspoons lemon juice
  
• 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard

• 6 boneless pork chops
  
• 6 large baking potatoes
  
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup butter, melted
  
• 3 Tablespoons dry bread crumbs
• 3 Tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
  
• Green onions, sliced (optional - garnish)

Method:

Combine ingredients for marinade. Place pork chops and marinade in sealed container. Refrigerate and marinade for at least 8 hours. Remove pork shops from marinade and discard the marinade. Cook over medium high heat until done.

With a sharp knife, slice potatoes thinly but not all the way through, leaving slices attached at the bottom. Place potatoes in a greased shallow baking dish. Sprinkle with salt; brush with 1/4 cup butter. Bake, uncovered, at 425° for 30 minutes. Brush potatoes with remaining butter and sprinkle with bread crumbs. Bake 20 minutes longer. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake 5-10 minutes more or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.

Chili in a Bread Bowl

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 (29 ounces) can tomato sauce
• 2 (14.5-15 ounces) cans kidney beans
• 2 (14.5 - 15 ounces) cans pinto beans
• 1 cup diced onion
  
• 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chili
• ¼ cup diced celery
• 3 medium tomatoes
  
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 3 Tablespoons chili powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 cups water
• 6 bread bowls
  
• Sour Cream, optional
  
• Shredded Cheddar cheese , optional
  

Method:

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, when meat is no longer pink, drain well. In a large soup pot, combine remaining ingredients and simmer over low heat 2-3 hours stirring occasionally.

Slow Cooker Directions: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, when meat is no longer pink, drain well. In a 5 quart slow cooker or larger, combine remaining ingredients, cover and cook on low heat 8-10 hours on or high heat 4-5 hours.

Cut tops off bread bowls, and remove bread pieces to create a "hollow". Fill bowl with approximately 1 cup chili . Top with cheese or sour cream and enjoy!

Pomegranate Chicken with Steamed Green Beans and Long Grain Wild Rice

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken breast halves
  
• 2 Tablespoons oil
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 ½ cups walnuts, ground in a processor (reserve ¼ cup for garnish)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 pomegranate, seeded
  
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup sugar, to taste
• Salt & pepper
• Long grain and wild rice mix
  

Method:

Heat oil in a large skillet, brown chicken breasts on both sides, remove and set aside. Add turmeric and onions to skillet, and most of ground walnuts (Reserve 2 tbsp for garnish). Cook until light brown. Transfer onion walnut mixture to a 6 quart pot. Add broth, bring to boil, lower to simmer and cook for 15 minutes. Add chicken, cover, simmer for 45 minutes. Meanwhile, cut pomegranate in quarters and remove seeds. Add pomegranate to the chicken along with lemon juice and sugar cover and cook for 30 minutes more. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with rice and garnish with extra ground walnuts.

Minestrone Soup with Cheese Rolls

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small white onion, finely minced
• ½ cup frozen Italian green beans
• ¼ cup minced celery
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
  
• 2 (15 ounces) cans red kidney beans
  
• 2 (15 ounces) cans great northern white beans
• 1 (14 ounces) can diced tomatoes, drained
  
• ½ cup shredded carrots
  
• ½ cup chopped zucchini
• 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• 3 cups hot water
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
  
• ½ cup elbow pasta
  
• 1 bag Rhodes Dinner Rolls
  
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Method:

Heat oil in a large stock pot over medium heat. Saute onion, celery,garlic, green beans and zucchini for 5 minutes or until onions are tender and translucent. Add vegetable broth, drained tomatoes, beans, carrots, hot water, and spices. Bring soup to a boil, reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes. Add spinach leaves and pasta and simmer for an additional 20 minutes. (Soup can be thickened with a little cornstarch and cold water if desired.)

Pour Parmesan cheese in a shallow bowl and set aside. Roll frozen rolls one at a time in melted butter and then roll in Parmesan cheese - working quickly - butter will re-freeze on roll. Place prepared rolls in desired pan. Cover with plastic wrap sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Let rise until double in size and bake according to package directions.

Seasoned Porketta Roast with Garlic Potatoes and Spinach Pomegranate Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 seasoned porketta roasts
  
• 3 lb. red potatoes, washed and cubed
  
• Water
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3/4 cup almonds, blanched and slivered
• 1 pound spinach, rinsed and torn into bite-size pieces
  
• 1 cup pomegranate, seeded
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons minced onion
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

Method:

In a greased 2 - 2 ½ quart slow cooker, place pork roasts. Cover and cook on low heat 8-10 hours or on high heat 4-5 hours. When done, remove from slow cooker and place on a serving platter.

Place cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Cook until potatoes are tender, drain. After draining well, return to cooking pot and add minced garlic and sour cream. Mash potatoes with a potato masher or hand mixer. Serve warm.

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Cook and stir almonds in butter until lightly toasted. Remove from heat, and let cool. In a large bowl, combine the spinach with the toasted almonds and pomegranate. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sesame seeds, poppy seeds, sugar, onion, paprika, white wine vinegar, cider vinegar, and vegetable oil. Toss with spinach just before serving.

Spinach Quiche and Spiced Orange Drink

Ingredients:

• Spinach Quiche
• ½ cup butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
  
• 1 (10 ounces) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained well
• 1 can (4.5 ounces) sliced mushrooms
• 1 (4 ounces) package herbed feta cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust
• 4 eggs, beaten
  
• 1 cup milk
• Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced
  

• Grapes

• Spiced Orange Drink
• 1 cups pre-sweetened orange drink powder (Tang)
  
• 2 ½ Tablespoons pre-sweetened lemonade drink powder
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

Method:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a skillet over medium heat, saute garlic and onion in melted butter until lightly browned, about 6-7 minutes. Stir in spinach, mushrooms, feta cheese and ½ cup cheddar cheese. Salt and pepper to taste. Carefully spoon mixture into unbaked pie crust. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Pour egg mixture into pie crust, gently stirrring to combine with spinach mixture. Bake for 15 minutes, remove from oven and place sliced tomatoes on the top and sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese, return to oven and bake an additional 35-40 minutes. (Until when jiggled the center is set.) Remove from oven and let set for 10 minutes before serving. Place grape bunch on individual plates before serving.

For orange drink: Combine all ingredients in a large zip-top bag. Seal and shake well until ingredients are thoroughly combined. To serve, dissolve 1 Tablespoon powder into 1 cup hot water. Stir well until powder is dissolved.

Meat Pies with Gravy and Apple Spinach Salad

Ingredients:

• Meat Pies with Gravy
• 1 pound ground beef
  
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  
• 3 ½ cups peeled and diced potatoes
  
• 1 ¼ cups diced carrots
  
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 pkg. refrigerated pie crusts or homemade pie crusts
• 2 brown gravy mixes, prepared

• Apple/Spinach Salad
• 1 bag baby spinach
  
• 2 Granny Smith apples, cored and sliced
  
• 8 ounces Cheddar Cheese, cubed
  
• ¼ cup walnuts, (optional)
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

Method:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. In a large skillet, brown meat with the onion. When meat is no longer pink, drain well. In a large bowl, combine cooked meat, potatoes, carrots and one cup gravy. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Roll out pie crusts. Place about ½ - 2/3 cup of meat mixture in the center of 6 pieces of pie crust that have been rolled out into about 10 inch rounds. Fold dough over meat mixture and seal edges with a fork. Cut slits in the top of each. Bake on an ungreased baking sheet for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with remaining gravy.

In a large bowl, combine spinach, apples, cheese and walnuts. Toss lightly. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, syrup and olive oil. Pour over the salad, toss to coat. Serve immediately. (Salad isn't good if mixed ahead of time. Prepare the salad and dressing separately and combine just prior to serving.)

Potatoes and Brats with Citrus Vinaigrette Salad

Ingredients:

• Potatoes and Brats
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 7 potatoes, cut into ¼ inch slices
  
• 6 fully cooked bratwurst, cut into 1 inch pieces
  
• 1 ½ medium onions, chopped
  
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup orange juice
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Pepper to taste

• Citrus Vinaigrette Salad
• 1 bag spinach
  
• 1 ½ cups cauliflower, cut up
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  

Vinaigrette Ingredients:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tablespoons orange juice
• 1 Tablespoon lime juice
  
• ¼ teaspoon lime zest
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
• 3 fresh basil leaves

Method:

In a skillet, heat oil over medium high heat. Add potatoes, cover and cook for about 5 minutes or until crisp-tender. Add bratwurst, onion and green pepper. Cook an additional 5 minutes. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, orange juice, basil, and salt. Pour sauce into skillet, stirring to coat vegetables. Continue cooking 1-2 minutes.

In a medium bowl, combine spinach, cauliflower, dried cranberries and cheese. In a separate bowl, whisk together vinaigrette ingredients. Strain out basil before combining with salad and serving.

Meatless Mexican Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 large tomatoes, cut in chunks
  
• 1 large onion, cut in chunks
• 1 cup fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 2 avocados, pitted, peeled and diced
  
• Grapes, washed and cut into bunches
• 2 tomatoes, chopped and drained
  
• 1 avocado pitted, peeled and chopped
  
• ¼ cup finely chopped onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 2 ounces crumbled feta cheese
• 1 (12 ounce) package corn tortillas
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt

Method:

In a blender, combine tomatoes, onion and cilantro. Blend until smooth. In a sauce pan, pour chicken broth, chipotle chili and pureed vegetables. Bring to a boil and remove from heat. In individual bowls, place diced avocados on the bottom and pour soup over the top. Serve immediately with Avocado Feta Salsa, baked tortilla chips and a bunch of grapes on the side.

In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine all ingredients except feta cheese. When combined well, add feta cheese. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours. Serve with baked tortilla chips.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Cut each tortilla into 8 chip sized wedges and arrange the wedges in a single layer on a cookie sheet. In a bowl, combine the oil and lime juice. Mix well and sprinkle with fingers over each tortilla wedge until slightly moist. Combine the cumin, chili powder and salt in a small bowl and sprinkle on the chips. Bake for about 7 minutes. Rotate the pan and bake for another 8 minutes or until the chips are crisp, and lightly browned.

Steak Sandwich

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb. thinly sliced sirloin steak
  
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• ¾ lb. sliced mushrooms
  
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• 1 red pepper
  
• ¼ cup apple juice
• 1 medium onion. sliced
  
• ¾ cup brown mustard
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
  
• 10-15 slices Provolone cheese
• ½ teaspoon each salt, garlic powder and ground black pepper
• 1 bag Cheetos chips
  
• 2 apples
• 1 loaf French bread

Method:

In a 3 ½ quart slow cooker, combine all ingredients except cheese, bread and brown mustard. Cover and cook on low heat 8-10 hours. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Slice the French bread lengthwise like a sub sandwich. Spread brown mustard on inside of bread. Place cheese on both sides of bread. Strain meat and veggies from slow cooker well (saving sauce for dipping) and place meat and veggies on bread. Sandwich the sides together and wrap in foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes. If crunchier bread is desired, bake without foil. Slice sandwich while hot and serve with sauce for dipping. Serve with Cheetos chips and apple slices.

Avocado Chicken with Cantaloupe

Ingredients:

• 4-6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• pinch of black pepper
• 2 tomatoes, sliced into 6 slices each
  
• 2 avocados, pitted, peeled and sliced
  
• 1 package (8 ounces) Monterey Jack cheese, cut into thin slices
• Cantaloupe, sliced and cut into chunks
• 1 tub Tangerine Strawberry Crystal Light

Method:
Preheat oven to broil. Meanwhile, heat oil in skillet and place in chicken that has been sprinkled with onion powder, salt and pepper. Cook 8-10 minutes or until chicken is browned on both sides and no longer pink. Place chicken on a cookie sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Top with 2 slices of tomato, 2 slices of avocado, and 2 slices of cheese. Broil watching closely 1-2 minutes (do not leave unattended as cheese will melt quickly) until cheese is melted and lightly browned. Serve immediately with freshly cut cantaloupe on the side sprinkled to personal taste with Tangerine Strawberry Crystal Light powder.

Beef Egg Rolls with Mexican Rice

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
  
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 pound ground beef
  
• ½ teaspoon basil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  
• 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (16 ounce) package egg roll wrappers
• Oil for frying, about 2 quarts
• Sour cream
  
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
  
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups chicken broth

Method:

In a large, heavy saute pan, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped garlic, onions, and bell pepper; saute until soft. Add meat; cook and stir until browned. Drain off excess fat. Stir in spices, cilantro and tomato sauce. Simmer until cilantro wilts. Remove from heat, and cool until mixture can be handled. Wrap 2 to 3 tablespoons of meat in an egg roll wrapper and seal to look like and egg roll. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or deep fry pan to 360 degrees F (168 degrees C). Fry patties in hot oil until golden brown. When done, transfer to plates lined with paper towels to drain. Serve with sour cream, and Mexican rice with a churro for dessert.

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat and add rice. Cook, stirring constantly, until puffed and golden. While rice is cooking, sprinkle with salt and cumin. Stir in onions and cook until tender. Stir in tomato sauce and chicken broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Creamy Potato Soup and Crunchy Romaine Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 (5 lb.) bag Russet Potatoes
  
• 1 medium onion
  
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 cups chicken broth
  
• 1 envelope Country gravy mix
• Cooked crumbled bacon
  
• Hard rolls
• 1 bag classic romaine
  
• 1 lb. broccoli
  
• 2-3 green onions
• 1 packet ramen noodles (any flavor)
• ½ cup walnut pieces
• ¼ cup butter
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• ¼ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

Method:

Peel and shred ½ of the potatoes. To keep potatoes from turning brown, put them in water until ready to use.) In a stock pot, saute onion until softened, about 4 minutes. Add potatoes (well drained from water) and cook for 2 minutes. (If they start to stick to the pan, add a little of the chicken broth.) Add chicken broth and gravy mix. Simmer 20-30 minutes. Garnish with cooked crumbled bacon and serve with romaine salad and hard rolls.

Pour salad greens into a large salad bowl. Chop broccoli into small pieces and slice green onions and add to salad greens. Break the ramen noodles up into small pieces. (I do this BEFORE I open the package - little or no mess) Remove flavor envelope from ramen packet and save for another recipe.

Melt butter in a large deep skillet. Add ramen noodles and walnuts and stir and cook over medium heat until light brown. Be sure to watch carefully and stir constantly- they will burn easily. Turn out onto a double thickness of paper towels and cool. When cool, add to salad greens. To prepare dressing, add all dressing ingredients to a blender and pulse until combined. Pour dressing a little at a time to the salad until desired seasoning is reached.

Sausage Spaghetti Squash

Ingredients:

• 2 Spaghetti Squash
  
• 1 roll sausage
  
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 jar (16oz.) spaghetti sauce
  
• 1 ½ lbs. broccoli, steamed
  

Method:

To prepare spaghetti squash, wash and dry squash. Poke the squash with a very sharp knife several times. (IMPORTANT STEP OR THE SQUASH WILL EXPLODE!)
Microwave on high for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, brown sausage with Italian seasoning until no longer pink. Drain well. Add spaghetti sauce and simmer over a low heat until ready to serve, adding a little water if it gets too thick.) After squash has finished the first 10 minutes, with a hot pad feel for tenderness, if still very firm microwave an additional 5-10 minutes. When tender, carefully cut open, remove seeds, and shred squash with a fork resembling spaghetti noodles. Serve squash "noodles" with spaghetti sauce over the top, steamed broccoli on the side with French bread.

3 More Tasty Recipes...

Simple Taco Soup with Cornbread and Raspberry Butter

Taco Soup:
1 lb. ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 packet taco seasoning
1 packet Ranch salad dressing
1 can (8 oz.) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz.) can petite diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz.) kidney or pinto beans
1 can (15oz.) chili beans
1 can (15oz.) refried beans
1 can (15 oz.) whole kernel corn
1 cup water

Brown ground beef with onion until beef is no longer pink. Drain well. In a large soup pot, combine all ingredients and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer 20 minutes. Serve with Cornbread and Raspberry Butter. (Recipe below)

Cornbread:
1 yellow cake mix and ingredients called for on back of box
2 boxes jiffy corn bread and ingredients called for on back of box
Eggs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine cake mix, cornbread mixes and all ingredients called for on the back of all boxes. Combine well and pour batter in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until toothpick inserted in middle comes out clean.

Raspberry Butter:
½ cup butter
¼ cup powdered sugar
2/3 cup frozen raspberries, thawed

Combine all ingredients in a food processor and mix until smooth. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Roasted Chicken in Apricot Sauce with Cauliflower Parmesan

Roasted Chicken in Apricot Sauce:
2 packages Boneless skinless chicken breasts
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½ cups apricot/pineapple jam
2 tablespoons soy sauce
½ teaspoon liquid smoke

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray large baking dish with a nonstick spray. Lay the chicken in the dish and sprinkle with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, combine all other ingredients. Stir until mixed and pour over chicken. Bake 30-35 minutes or until chicken is done. Serve with Cauliflower Parmesan. (Recipe below)

Cauliflower Parmesan:
2 baking potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
2 cloves garlic. minced
4 cups cauliflower
½ cup milk
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Put potatoes and garlic in a large sauce pan and add water to cover about 2 inches. Bring to a boil and cook for 7-8 minutes. Add cauliflower and continue to boil until potato is done. Remove from heat, and add milk and Parmesan cheese. Mash or use a hand mixer to combine until smooth or desired consistency. Salt and pepper if desired.

Roast Beef with Tomatoes, Green Chili and Lime and Spicy Brown Rice

Roast Beef with Tomatoes, Green Chili and Lime:
1 ¼ lb. roast beef, sliced thickly from Deli, cut into strips
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ small onion, chopped
1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes
1 can (4 oz.) diced green chilies
3 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon cumin
2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro

In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, stirring to cook through about 2-3 minutes. Add roast beef and continue to cook and brown on all sides. Add tomatoes, chilies, lime juice and cumin. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 additional minutes. Season with salt and pepper if desired and garnish with cilantro before serving.

Spicy Brown Rice:
2 ¼ cups water
2 cups quick cooking brown rice
1 can (15 oz.) pinto beans
1 can (4 oz.) chopped green chilies
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder

In a large sauce pan, bring water to a boil Add all ingredients to water. Cover and cook until rice is done, about 8-10 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving and if desired season with salt and pepper.

Recipes w/ on SALE ingredients from Macey's (Utah) ad Sept 17-23

Here is a few recipes that I will be presenting on KSL TV (Studio 5) today (Wednesday 17th). They are recipes that include ingredients that are on sale at Maceys Grocery Stores (Utah) during their case-lot sale starting on the 17th-23rd.
If you don't have a Maceys, or don't live in Utah, these are still some great FALL recipes! Enjoy!

Cashew Chicken
1 can (10.75 oz.) cream of mushroom soup (**sale $0.69 each)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 1/2 pounds chicken, cut into pieces (or use chicken tenders)
1 can (4 oz.) sliced mushrooms, drained (**sale $0.59 each)
1 cup sliced celery (**sale sleeved organic celery $0.99 each)
1 cup shredded carrots (**sale organic 1 lb. bag mini carrots 2/$3.00)
1 can (8 oz.) sliced water chestnuts, drained (**sale $0.59 each)
1/2 cup cashews
Hot cooked rice

In a 3 1/2 - 4 quart slow cooker, combine soup, soy sauce and ginger. Stir in chicken, mushrooms, celery, carrots and water chestnuts. Cover and cook on low heat 6-8 hours or high heat 3-4 hours. Serve over hot cooked rice and garnish with cashews and a fortune cookie (optional). Serve with following Mandarin Salad. Serves 6.

Mandarin Salad
1 bag salad greens (**sale Dole Salad Blends 2/$5.00)
1 small red onion, sliced thinly
1 can (11 oz.) mandarin oranges (**sale $0.39 each)
1 pkg. (3 oz.) Oriental flavor ramen noodles (**sale 8/$1.00)
1/3 cup Italian dressing (**sale Western family brand $1.29)
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon sesame seed

Mix lettuce, onion and oranges in a large bowl. Crush ramen noodles in package and sprinkle over lettuce mixture. In a tightly covered container, mix season packet from ramen noodles, water, salad dressing, sugar, and sesame seed. Shake to mix dressing ingredients. Pour over salad and toss until evenly coated. Serve immediately. Makes 6-10 servings.

Tailgating BBQ Sandwiches
1 (1 1/2 lb.) picnic pork roast (**sale $1.49/lb.)
1 (1 1/2 lb.) boneless beef chuck roast (**sale $3.59/lb.)
2 cans (8 oz. each) tomato sauce (**sale $0.19 each)
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup cider vinegar
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dry mustard
16 buns
Doritos chips (**sale 2/$5.00)

Trim fat from beef and pork roasts. Place meat in a 3 1/2 - 4 quart slow cooker. In a small bowl, combine sugar, vinegar, water, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt and dry mustard. Pour over meat. Cover and cook on low heat 10-12 hours or on high heat 5-6 hours. Shred meat with two forks or potato masher. Let meat sit for 5-10 minutes to soak up sauce. Serve on buns with chips and following Waldorf salad. Makes 8-16 servings.

Waldorf Salad
4 medium red apples cut into 1/4 inch slices (**sale Gala apples $0.99/lb.)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon brown sugar (**sale $1.09)
1/3 cup mayonnaise (**sale Best Foods $3.49)
1 cup thinly sliced celery (**sale sleeved organic celery $0.99 each)
2 tablespoons chopped walnuts
2 cups tightly packed spinach leaves (**sale bunch spinach $0.99 each)

Sprinkle apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning, then add brown sugar stirring to coat. Chill apples for 15-20 minutes. Remove from refrigerator and stir in mayonnaise. Add celery and walnuts. Serve apple mixture over bed of spinach leaves. Serves 4.

Meatball Soup
Meatball Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef (**sale $1.79/lb. sold in 2 lb. chubs)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (**sale Western Family brand 8 oz. $2.59)
2 tablespoons chopped onion (**sale medium yellow 2 lbs. $1.00)
1 garlic clove, minced
2 teaspoons dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 large egg, lightly beaten (**sale Oakdell brown eggs $2.19/dz)

Combine meatball ingredients in large bowl. Mix well. Shape into 1 inch balls (about 4 dozen total). In a skillet over medium-low heat, pour a small amount of vegetable oil. Cook the meatballs for 8-10 minutes turning often to brown all sides until the middles are only slightly pink. Remove from heat and set aside.

Soup Ingredients:
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 small-medium onion chopped (**sale medium yellow 2 lbs. $1.00)
1 celery rib, finely chopped (**sale sleeved organic celery $0.99 each)
1 garlic clove, minced
5 cups chicken stock
1 can (14.5-15 oz.) pureed tomatoes (**sale Assorted Tomatoes $0.49 each)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3) cup pasta (any style) (**sale 2/$3.00)

Soup Directions:
Heat the oil in a soup pot over medium heat, add onion, celery and garlic. Cook 8-10 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Add chicken stock, tomatoes and spices. Bring soup to a simmer over medium-low heat, then add pasta. When pasta is almost cooked, add meatballs and cook for 3 minutes. Serve with breadsticks. Serves 6.

Yummy Pasta Dish...

Another dish I made on TV this week:

Light Linguine Carbonara

Ingredients:

• 1 package (12 ounces) linguine noodles
  
• 1 cup chopped bacon
  
• ½ cup chopped red onion
  
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon each, oregano and basil
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 ½ cups milk (preferably 1%)
  
• ½ cup sour cream (preferably light)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bag prepared salad
  
• Light salad dressing

Method:

Cook the linguine according to package directions, then drain, set aside and keep warm. Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until golden brown. Add onion and garlic and cook until onion is translucent and soft. Stir in oregano and basil. Add flour and stir to coat. Turn the heat down to medium, stir in the milk and bring to a low simmer. Simmer until sauce thickens. When sauce is thick, remove from heat and whisk in sour cream and Parmesan cheese. Serve sauce over hot linguine, with a side salad and light dressing. Makes 4-6 servings.

Tasty Pork Chops...

I made this recipe on TV this week. It's a really good one, and an uncommon variation on regular, plain old pork chops.

Pork Chops with Portabello Mushrooms

Ingredients:

• 4-6 boneless pork chops
  
• 1 ½ cups salsa
  
• 1 cup chopped Portobello mushrooms
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  
• 2 Tablespoons maple syrup
  
• ½ cup freshly chopped parsley
• 1 lb. fresh green beans steamed, set aside and kept warm.

Method:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spoon salsa into a 3 quart 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange pork chops on top of salsa. In a small bowl, combine Portobello mushrooms, cheese and syrup. Spoon sauce over pork chops. Bake, uncovered for 25 - 30 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle parsley over the pork chops. Serve with salsa drippings from baking dish and steamed green beans.

AuthorViews: Janet Eyring

Here is a video I made a couple of years ago, promoting my first Slowcooker book.

Recipes from TV spot today (not slowcooker, but still good tasting food!)

Parmesan Crusted Chicken and Twice Baked Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 6 baking potatoes
• 1 package (16 ounces) bacon, cooked until crisp and broken into pieces
• 1 cup light sour cream
• 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar, plus more for garnish Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken strips
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Method:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Bake potatoes for 1 hour, until tender. When cool enough to handle, cut each potato in half lengthwise, scoop out inner potato, leaving a 1/4-inch shell and transfer to a large bowl. Add bacon, sour cream and Cheddar and mix until blended. Season, to taste, with salt and black pepper. Spoon mixture back into the shells. Sprinkle with a little more shredded Cheddar. Arrange stuffed shells on a baking sheet. Bake 20 minutes, until golden brown.

To make chicken strips, coat chicken all over with Dijon mustard. Place Parmesan in a shallow dish or plastic bag, add chicken and turn (or shake bag) to coat. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook 5 minutes per side, until cooked through.

Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine tomato sauce, lemon juice, chili powder, hot sauce, and black pepper. Set pan over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Serve chicken with sauce and baked potatoes on the side.

Cashew Lime Chicken with Rice

Ingredients:

• 2 cups hot rice, cooked according to package directions
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1 inch pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1 cup salted dry roasted cashews, garnish

Method:

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add ginger and garlic. Stir for 1 minute to not burn garlic. Add chicken and cook and stir until chicken is cooked on all sides. Add salt, pepper, broth, hoisin sauce, lime juice, and zest. Bring to a simmer for 10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes. Serve over hot rice and garnish with cashews. Served with a salad of fresh spinach, mandarin oranges and a vinaigrette.

Sweet and Sour Kielbasa

Ingredients:

• Sauce:

• 2 cans (11 ounces each) chopped or crushed pineapple
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 1 (16 ounces) kielbasa sausage
• 2 bell peppers, cut into 1 inch pieces
• 1 package stir fry vegetables
• Hot cooked rice

Method:

Combine the undrained pineapple, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar in a blender and process until smooth. Transfer mixture to a medium saucepan and turn on medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, partially covered. When done, set aside. Slice sausage, place in a skillet and cook on medium high heat for 4-6 minutes. Add bell peppers and stir fry vegetables. Continue to cook and stir for 3-4 minutes or until veggies are tender. Pour sweet and sour sauce over sausage mixture and serve over rice.

Frozen Lime Pie

Ingredients:

• 1 (8 ounces) container light Cool Whip, softened
• 1 (14 ounces) can fat-free sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup lime juice (fresh is best, but the bottled works well) Graham cracker crust (I used the mini size)

Method:

In a medium bowl combine the Cool Whip, milk and lime juice until smooth. Spoon the mixture into graham cracker crusts. If you have extra filling, spoon it into glass cups. Freeze until firm, about 6 hours or overnight.

Sugared Wonton Wrappers and Oranges

Ingredients:

• 12 wonton wrappers (round are very pretty)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 cup Cool Whip
• 1 (11 ounces) can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar

Method:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Arrange wonton wrappers on a cookie sheet and spray them with a cooking spray. Sprinkle them evenly with granulated sugar, then bake until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove them from oven and arrange 4 of the wontons on a serving platter or individual serving dishes. Top each with 2 tablespoons Cool Whip and then 4 mandarin oranges. Top each with a second wonton wrapper and repeat with all layers. Sift the powdered sugar over the top and serve.