This recipe is fun, delicious and great to make if you have kids! I made this so much the first time I got the recipe that I kind of wore it out at my house! It's that good. This is a meal you can feel good about. It uses fresh ingredients and the sauce is from scratch - none of that Manwich stuff! Yuck! This will be a family favorite for sure!
My notes: Hence, the title, this is a ground turkey recipe. I suppose you could make it with ground beef, but why? The turkey is so much better for you and I can't even tell the difference between the two when I cook anymore. The recipe is from Rachael Ray and it's written for a kid to cook with their parents, so just keep that in mind! It also includes Cheese fries and veggie sticks. I usually serve it with some frozen fries or chips. Enjoy!
Sloppy Turkey Joes (from FoodNetwork.com)
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2 turns of the pan
1 package, 1 1/3 pounds, ground turkey breast or lean ground turkey
1/2 red onion
1/2 red bell pepper
1 tablespoon grill seasoning blend (recommended: McCormick Montreal Grill Seasoning or Mrs. Dash seasoning for poultry)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup tomato sauce,( 8- ounce) can
4 crusty sandwich rolls, split
Have a GH (grown helper) place a big skillet over medium high heat for you. Use some kitchen scissors to cut the turkey package open. Add some extra-virgin olive oil, 2 turns of the pan in a nice, slow stream. Have the GH add the ground turkey to the pan, in case it spatters. Break the turkey up with a big wooden spoon as it starts to cook. If anyone touches the raw turkey, they should go wash their hands.
If you are a really good chopper, using a small, sharp knife chop up some red onion. Remember when you are chopping to keep the fingers that are not holding the knife all tucked in and curled under. Have a GH help you. You need half a red onion chopped up small. Pull the seeds and white membrane and the top out of a half red bell pepper and chop that up small too. Add the veggies to the cooking meat and stir it all together.
Next, mix in a small bowl: grill seasoning blend, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce and the tomato sauce. This will make your special sauce. When all the ingredients are combined, pour the sauce evenly over the meat and stir everything together really well. Turn the heat down to simmer and cook the sloppy mixture for 10 minutes. Blow on a spoonful until cool and taste it to see if you need to adjust the seasoning.
Have the GH help you serve. Place a bun bottom on a plate. Use a big ice cream scoop to get a pile of sloppy meat onto the bun. Put bun top in place and serve with french fries or chips.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Monday, December 21, 2009
Creamy Tomato Soup
The weather where I live is pretty hot all year-round so when we get even a touch of cool, dry air, we pull out the "winter" clothes, open all the windows and break out our favorite soup recipes. I mean, soup just doesn't taste the same when it's 90 degrees out. I made this soup on one of those rare cool days and we practically licked our bowls clean. In fact, I wish I had made more to freeze because we've had about 5 cool days in a row and it's been marvelous! Next time. This soup is just the right amount of tangy and creamy and not too acidic. You'll love it!
My notes: As I said before, I wish I had made more if this, so I would double the recipe and freeze the left-overs. The recipe will feed a family of 4, though. I had to puree the soup in a few batches because it was so hot, so I equally added the cream cheese with each batch, a little at a time, and it worked out well. I didn't have fresh basil, so I used a few teaspoons of dried basil and it was great. I would definitely serve this with a fancy grilled cheese panini! Or, use it as an appetizer to your meal! Either way, this is a winner.
Creamy Tomato Soup (from OurBestBites.com)
1 T real butter
1 C chopped onion
¾ C shredded carrot
1 T minced garlic
1 tea sugar
¼ tea pepper
¼ tea salt
4 Fresh Basil leaves plus some for garnish (or substitute 1-2 t dried basil, see note below)
1/2 C sliced sun-dried tomatos, packed in oil with herbs
2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (14oz) can chicken broth
3 oz 1/3 less fat cream cheese
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion, shredded carrot, and garlic, and cook for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring frequently.
2. Add sugar, pepper, and salt and cook 2 more minutes. Then add sun-dried tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and 4 basil leaves.If you're substituting dried basil, the rule of thumb is 1/3 part dried herb = 1 part fresh so for this recipe you can eyeball it, but I'm guessing you'd want to add about 1-2 t dried basil
3. Stir to combine and finally add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Cover, and reduce heat, and simmer 30-40 minutes.
4. Remove from heat. Place soup in blender (do this in 2 batches if necessary). Add cream cheese. Remove center piece of blender lid to allow steam to escape, but place a paper towel over opening in blender lid to avoid splatters. Process for a couple of minutes until very smooth.
5. Divide soup among bowls and garnish each serving with a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan cheese and a basil leaf.
My notes: As I said before, I wish I had made more if this, so I would double the recipe and freeze the left-overs. The recipe will feed a family of 4, though. I had to puree the soup in a few batches because it was so hot, so I equally added the cream cheese with each batch, a little at a time, and it worked out well. I didn't have fresh basil, so I used a few teaspoons of dried basil and it was great. I would definitely serve this with a fancy grilled cheese panini! Or, use it as an appetizer to your meal! Either way, this is a winner.
Creamy Tomato Soup (from OurBestBites.com)
1 T real butter
1 C chopped onion
¾ C shredded carrot
1 T minced garlic
1 tea sugar
¼ tea pepper
¼ tea salt
4 Fresh Basil leaves plus some for garnish (or substitute 1-2 t dried basil, see note below)
1/2 C sliced sun-dried tomatos, packed in oil with herbs
2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (14oz) can chicken broth
3 oz 1/3 less fat cream cheese
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion, shredded carrot, and garlic, and cook for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring frequently.
2. Add sugar, pepper, and salt and cook 2 more minutes. Then add sun-dried tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and 4 basil leaves.If you're substituting dried basil, the rule of thumb is 1/3 part dried herb = 1 part fresh so for this recipe you can eyeball it, but I'm guessing you'd want to add about 1-2 t dried basil
3. Stir to combine and finally add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Cover, and reduce heat, and simmer 30-40 minutes.
4. Remove from heat. Place soup in blender (do this in 2 batches if necessary). Add cream cheese. Remove center piece of blender lid to allow steam to escape, but place a paper towel over opening in blender lid to avoid splatters. Process for a couple of minutes until very smooth.
5. Divide soup among bowls and garnish each serving with a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan cheese and a basil leaf.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Panko-Crusted Chicken with Mustard-Maple Pan Sauce
Sounds fancy but it's so easy! This is definitely a crowd-pleaser and you will want to make it again and again. I got this recipe from Epicurious.com. Enjoy!
My notes: You can find Panko breadcrumbs in Publix near the other breadcrumbs. If you can't find them, ask - you definitely can't subsitute with regular ones! This recipe makes a lot of sauce so I double the chicken. I cut the breasts in half to make smaller pieces and pounded them very thin. I think I had 8 altogether. I also added a little more syrup than the recipe called for because when I tested the sauce it was a little more mustardy than sweet. Just adjust if necessary. This is an amazing meal! You could serve it with roasted potatoes and vegetables and a small salad.
Panko-Crusted Chicken with Mustard-Maple Pan Sauce (from Epicurious.com)
2 8-ounce skinless boneless chicken breast halves, cut crosswise in half
1 large egg
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh Italian parsley
2 teaspoons plus 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup low-salt chicken broth
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon coarse-grained mustard
1 tablespoon chilled unsalted butter
Using meat mallet or rolling pin, pound chicken in resealable plastic bag to 1/3-to 1/2-inch thickness. Whisk egg, parsley, and 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard in large bowl. Place chicken in egg mixture; turn to coat. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Dip each chicken piece in panko; turn to coat. Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook until brown and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side.
Meanwhile, whisk broth, syrup, coarse-grained mustard, and remaining 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard in glass measuring cup.
Transfer chicken to plates. Add broth mixture to skillet; boil until reduced to 3/4 cup, stirring occasionally, about 4 minutes. Add butter; whisk until melted. Spoon sauce alongside chicken.
My notes: You can find Panko breadcrumbs in Publix near the other breadcrumbs. If you can't find them, ask - you definitely can't subsitute with regular ones! This recipe makes a lot of sauce so I double the chicken. I cut the breasts in half to make smaller pieces and pounded them very thin. I think I had 8 altogether. I also added a little more syrup than the recipe called for because when I tested the sauce it was a little more mustardy than sweet. Just adjust if necessary. This is an amazing meal! You could serve it with roasted potatoes and vegetables and a small salad.
Panko-Crusted Chicken with Mustard-Maple Pan Sauce (from Epicurious.com)
2 8-ounce skinless boneless chicken breast halves, cut crosswise in half
1 large egg
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh Italian parsley
2 teaspoons plus 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup low-salt chicken broth
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon coarse-grained mustard
1 tablespoon chilled unsalted butter
Using meat mallet or rolling pin, pound chicken in resealable plastic bag to 1/3-to 1/2-inch thickness. Whisk egg, parsley, and 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard in large bowl. Place chicken in egg mixture; turn to coat. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Dip each chicken piece in panko; turn to coat. Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook until brown and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side.
Meanwhile, whisk broth, syrup, coarse-grained mustard, and remaining 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard in glass measuring cup.
Transfer chicken to plates. Add broth mixture to skillet; boil until reduced to 3/4 cup, stirring occasionally, about 4 minutes. Add butter; whisk until melted. Spoon sauce alongside chicken.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Asian Chicken with Pasta
This recipe is sort of my own concoction but it turned out pretty well! I got the general idea for it from this blog. I think I will make that exact recipe at some point but last night I really wanted something hot so I changed it up a bit.
Asian Chicken with Pasta
1-2 cups ditalini or orzo pasta (use however much you want...I used 2 cups)
2 cups cooked chicken (I used half the meat from a rotisserie chicken that I had shredded and frozen earlier)
1 red pepper, chopped
1/2 a large or 1 medium onion, chopped
8 oz edamame or sugar snap peas (you can throw them in frozen)
4 tablespoons canola oil
4 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
1 teaspoon grated or minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup peanuts or almonds
First, boil some water for the pasta and cook till al dente. Rinse and set aside. Meanwhile, chop the onion, pepper and sautee it in a skillet in a little bit of oil till softened. Add in the chicken to heat up (if you're using raw chicken, cook that first, then add the onion & pepper). In a small bowl combine the oil, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, ginger, garlic and red pepper flakes. Pour into skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes. Add in edamame and peanuts or almonds and cook till edamame is no longer frozen. Serve! You can also sprinkle some nuts on top. Enjoy!
Asian Chicken with Pasta
1-2 cups ditalini or orzo pasta (use however much you want...I used 2 cups)
2 cups cooked chicken (I used half the meat from a rotisserie chicken that I had shredded and frozen earlier)
1 red pepper, chopped
1/2 a large or 1 medium onion, chopped
8 oz edamame or sugar snap peas (you can throw them in frozen)
4 tablespoons canola oil
4 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
1 teaspoon grated or minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup peanuts or almonds
First, boil some water for the pasta and cook till al dente. Rinse and set aside. Meanwhile, chop the onion, pepper and sautee it in a skillet in a little bit of oil till softened. Add in the chicken to heat up (if you're using raw chicken, cook that first, then add the onion & pepper). In a small bowl combine the oil, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, ginger, garlic and red pepper flakes. Pour into skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes. Add in edamame and peanuts or almonds and cook till edamame is no longer frozen. Serve! You can also sprinkle some nuts on top. Enjoy!
Monday, December 7, 2009
Pineapple & Green Chile Pork Tacos
I just made this awesome recipe yesterday for dinner. I love using the Crock Pot as often as possible. The meat is always cooked perfectly, falls apart and just melts in your mouth. It's amazing. Both the hubby and I gobbled it up. I know it sounds weird but trust me, try it! I've never had pork in a taco but it kind of makes me think of fish tacos - something I've never had but want to try. I'm SO glad I did and you will be too!
My notes: Regarding the choice of meat: when I made this, I used pork ribs I had in the freezer that I wanted to get rid of. Next time, I will probably just use a boneless pork butt (the "butt" is actually the shoulder, not the "butt"! Don't know why it's called that.) roast - it's cheap and not such a hassle to de-bone. You can find tomatillo salsa on the same aisle as all the Mexican/Spanish food in your grocery store. I served it with taco shells, mexican rice (one of those Knorr (formerly Lipton) packets), cheese and sour cream. I wish I had fresh tomatoes but maybe next time. This makes so much pork so you can make a whole other meal with it the next day! Enjoy!
Pineapple & Green Chile Pork Tacos (from RealMomKitchen.com)
3 lb. boneless pork roast
1 (20 ounce can) crushed pineapple with juices
1 (16 ounce) jar tomatillo salsa (green salsa or salsa verde)
2 (4 ounce) cans green chiles, undrained
2/3 cup brown sugar
Combine all ingredients in the crock pot and cook on high for four hours or on low for 6 to eight hours. Shred pork, season to taste with salt and pepper. In a colander, drain juices from crock pot. Mix shredded pork with pineapple/salsa mixture that remains in colander and serve in tortillas with desired accompaniments. It also works great to serve as a quesadilla.
My notes: Regarding the choice of meat: when I made this, I used pork ribs I had in the freezer that I wanted to get rid of. Next time, I will probably just use a boneless pork butt (the "butt" is actually the shoulder, not the "butt"! Don't know why it's called that.) roast - it's cheap and not such a hassle to de-bone. You can find tomatillo salsa on the same aisle as all the Mexican/Spanish food in your grocery store. I served it with taco shells, mexican rice (one of those Knorr (formerly Lipton) packets), cheese and sour cream. I wish I had fresh tomatoes but maybe next time. This makes so much pork so you can make a whole other meal with it the next day! Enjoy!
Pineapple & Green Chile Pork Tacos (from RealMomKitchen.com)
3 lb. boneless pork roast
1 (20 ounce can) crushed pineapple with juices
1 (16 ounce) jar tomatillo salsa (green salsa or salsa verde)
2 (4 ounce) cans green chiles, undrained
2/3 cup brown sugar
Combine all ingredients in the crock pot and cook on high for four hours or on low for 6 to eight hours. Shred pork, season to taste with salt and pepper. In a colander, drain juices from crock pot. Mix shredded pork with pineapple/salsa mixture that remains in colander and serve in tortillas with desired accompaniments. It also works great to serve as a quesadilla.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Chicken Parmigiana Quesadillas with Cheesy Marinara Rice
My friend Carla and I found this recipe about 2 years ago. It comes from Publix Apron's Meals and it couldn't be easier. Plus it's delicious and if you're in a hurry, it takes probably 15-20 minutes to make! This is a great meal to make if you have kids because the chicken is actually breaded chicken nuggets and what kid doesn't like chicken nuggets?! You could puree or shred some zucchini and hide it in there for added nutrition or add some chopped peppers! These are a hit as a week night dinner or as hors d'oeurves. The cheesy rice is a great addition. I use it all the time to complement other dishes too. Tip: Heat up the extra marinara sauce to dip your quesadillas in! Enjoy!
My notes: I use my favorite jarred marinara sauce (I like Bertolli or Prego, personally). I have a small George Foreman grill that I use to make these but if you don't have one, just use a wide skillet and flip once after the first side is browned & the cheese is melted. For the rice, I use Uncle Ben's 90 second microwaveable rice - it's called Cheesy Rice, I think. That is what you want for this! Again, I just use the same jarred sauce for this that I used for the quesadillas. I've used fresh & pre-minced garlic - it doesn't matter. I don't have a garlic press so I grate it into the rice or just use the pre-minced - it isn't as strong as raw garlic anyway.
Chicken Parmigiana Quesadillas (rice recipe below)
10 ounces frozen breaded chicken tenders or strips
8 medium-size flour tortillas
cooking spray
1 cup shredded Italian-blend cheese, divided
1 1/2 cups tomato pasta sauce with olives, divided (I just used my favorite jarred sauce - I hate olives)
Preheat two-sided tabletop grill. Place chicken tenders on plate (may be paper). Microwave on HIGH 3-5 minutes or until heated. Cut chicken into bite-size pieces. Lightly coat one side of the tortillas with cooking spray. Arrange 4 of the tortillas on clean work surface (sprayed side down). Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the cheese over each tortilla, then one-fourth of the chicken. Spoon one-fourth of the marinara sauce over the chicken; then sprinkle with 2 more tablespoons of the cheese. Cover each with remaining tortillas (sprayed side out).
Place one or two quesadillas on grill (depending on size of grill). Cook 4-5 minutes or until golden. Let stand 2-3 minutes before cutting. Cook remaining quesadillas. Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve.Note: Quesadillas may be cooked in large sauté pan preheated on medium. Double cooking time, turning once.
Cheesy Marinara Rice
1 (8.5-ounce) pouch pre-cooked rice with cheese
1 cup tomato pasta sauce with olives
3 fresh garlic cloves
4-5 sprigs fresh Italian parsley (rinsed)
Combine rice and pasta sauce in small saucepan on medium. Crush garlic, using garlic press, into rice. Use knife to remove garlic from bottom of press. Chop parsley finely (1 tablespoon); stir into rice. Cook 2-4 more minutes, stirring occasionally, or until thoroughly heated. Reduce heat to warm; cover until ready to serve.
My notes: I use my favorite jarred marinara sauce (I like Bertolli or Prego, personally). I have a small George Foreman grill that I use to make these but if you don't have one, just use a wide skillet and flip once after the first side is browned & the cheese is melted. For the rice, I use Uncle Ben's 90 second microwaveable rice - it's called Cheesy Rice, I think. That is what you want for this! Again, I just use the same jarred sauce for this that I used for the quesadillas. I've used fresh & pre-minced garlic - it doesn't matter. I don't have a garlic press so I grate it into the rice or just use the pre-minced - it isn't as strong as raw garlic anyway.
Chicken Parmigiana Quesadillas (rice recipe below)
10 ounces frozen breaded chicken tenders or strips
8 medium-size flour tortillas
cooking spray
1 cup shredded Italian-blend cheese, divided
1 1/2 cups tomato pasta sauce with olives, divided (I just used my favorite jarred sauce - I hate olives)
Preheat two-sided tabletop grill. Place chicken tenders on plate (may be paper). Microwave on HIGH 3-5 minutes or until heated. Cut chicken into bite-size pieces. Lightly coat one side of the tortillas with cooking spray. Arrange 4 of the tortillas on clean work surface (sprayed side down). Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the cheese over each tortilla, then one-fourth of the chicken. Spoon one-fourth of the marinara sauce over the chicken; then sprinkle with 2 more tablespoons of the cheese. Cover each with remaining tortillas (sprayed side out).
Place one or two quesadillas on grill (depending on size of grill). Cook 4-5 minutes or until golden. Let stand 2-3 minutes before cutting. Cook remaining quesadillas. Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve.Note: Quesadillas may be cooked in large sauté pan preheated on medium. Double cooking time, turning once.
Cheesy Marinara Rice
1 (8.5-ounce) pouch pre-cooked rice with cheese
1 cup tomato pasta sauce with olives
3 fresh garlic cloves
4-5 sprigs fresh Italian parsley (rinsed)
Combine rice and pasta sauce in small saucepan on medium. Crush garlic, using garlic press, into rice. Use knife to remove garlic from bottom of press. Chop parsley finely (1 tablespoon); stir into rice. Cook 2-4 more minutes, stirring occasionally, or until thoroughly heated. Reduce heat to warm; cover until ready to serve.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Tortellini Sausage Soup
I just made this tonight for dinner and my hubby and I both loved it! It was easy to make, healthy and delicious! I just found this recipe from Our Best Bites and I'm so glad I did. I've included a picture so you can see what the end result looks like.
My notes: I just made a couple changes to the original recipe. I don't have a garlic press so instead of mincing the garlic myself, I grated it into the pot using my box grater. Also, I used 1 medium zucchini instead of two. I shredded both up and thought it looked like a ton of zucchini so I used about half and I think it was perfect. Other than that, I followed it exactly. Enjoy!
3 links Italian sausage
4 cloves pressed garlic
1 onion, diced
½ c. water
2 cans chicken broth
½ c. apple cider (don't leave this out! I did once and it wasn't the same...)
1 16-oz. can diced tomatoes
1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
1 c. sliced carrots
1 tsp. dried basil
1 tsp. dried oregano
2 medium zucchini, grated (great way to use your food processor if you have one)
8-10 oz. package cheese tortellini (check the freezer section of your grocery store; if you can find it there, it will almost always be way cheaper than fresh tortellini. Also, Barilla makes a great dry cheese tortellini)
2 Tbsp. dried parsley (yes, that's two tablespoons)
If you're using link sausage, remove the casings and crumble into a large soup pot. To remove the casings, you can use a sharp knife to cut a slit down one side of the sausage and then peel back the casing. Begin cooking sausage over medium heat, stirring frequently. If your sausage is pretty fatty, you'll want to drain it when it's about halfway cooked.
Meanwhile, chop onions and garlic and add to the sausage. Continue cooking until onions are translucent and your sausage is cooked. Your house will smell heavenly.Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, juice, water, chicken broth, carrots, oregano, and basil. Cover and simmer for 1/2 hour. Add parsley and zucchini and simmer for another 15 minutes or so.Add the tortellini and cook until tender, and then serve with bread and freshly-grated Parmesan.
Sweet & Sour Meatballs
Need a dish to bring to a party? This is a great appetizer! It couldn't be easier! There are many recipes floating around for Sweet & Sour Meatballs but this is my favorite and when I bring this anywhere - baby shower, pot luck, Super Bowl party, etc. there are NO meatballs left! So don't expect any left-overs! This is sweet and tangy and I dare you to just eat one! :)
Sweet & Sour Meatballs
1 bag Armour brand frozen meatballs (usually come with 32 meatballs in a bag - make sure they are "caramel coated")
2 12oz jars of grape jelly
2 12 oz jars of chili sauce (not to be confused with cocktail sauce which looks exactly the same but tastes totally different so pay attention!)
I cook this in the crock pot for about 4 hours and it turns out great. Just empty the jelly and chili sauce in your crock pot and whisk to combine. It will be lumpy but the jelly will melt and the sauce becomes smooth as it cooks. Pour in the bag of meatballs and stir to get them all coated. Put the lid on, cook for 4 hours and serve! This is a hit at any event!
Sweet & Sour Meatballs
1 bag Armour brand frozen meatballs (usually come with 32 meatballs in a bag - make sure they are "caramel coated")
2 12oz jars of grape jelly
2 12 oz jars of chili sauce (not to be confused with cocktail sauce which looks exactly the same but tastes totally different so pay attention!)
I cook this in the crock pot for about 4 hours and it turns out great. Just empty the jelly and chili sauce in your crock pot and whisk to combine. It will be lumpy but the jelly will melt and the sauce becomes smooth as it cooks. Pour in the bag of meatballs and stir to get them all coated. Put the lid on, cook for 4 hours and serve! This is a hit at any event!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Chicken Marsala
If you want to impress your in-laws or your husband's boss (or your boss!), this is the meal for you. I made this for my in-laws when I first got married and my father-in-law probably would've eaten the entire dish! I also make this for my Grandpa a lot, it's one of his favorites. This is so delicious - it will definitely become one of your favorite meals.
My notes: When I make this for my husband, I don't use mushrooms because neither one of us care for them...it's a texture thing. I love the taste they bring to dishes but I can't eat them. However, when I make this for other people I add them and they're a hit. You should be able to find marsala cooking wine in any grocery store. I don't use real marsala wine, even though all the Food Network chefs say you should use real wine instead of cooking wine, but sorry, no one in my house is going to drink marsala wine. Go cheap and buy the cooking wine, it's delicious. I use dried parsley instead of fresh.
Chicken Marsala (from MarthaStewart.com)
Serves 4
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons coarse salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 5 ounces each), butterflied
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 ounces white button mushrooms, sliced
2 cups sweet Marsala wine
1 clove garlic, finely minced
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (of 1 lemon)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
Combine flour, salt, and pepper in a large shallow dish; set aside. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Dredge chicken in seasoned flour, tapping off excess; set aside. Add oil to skillet. When oil is shimmering, add chicken, and cook until lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Turn over, and cook 3 minutes more. Remove chicken to a plate; set aside and keep warm.
Heat 2 tablespoons butter in same skillet. Add mushrooms, and cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are golden brown and all the released liquid has evaporated, 5 to 7 minutes.
Remove skillet from heat, and add wine. Return skillet to heat, scraping up any brown bits with a wooden spoon. Add garlic, lemon juice, remaining 2 tablespoons butter, and parsley. Cook for 2 minutes until reduced and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust for seasoning. Pour sauce over chicken and sprinkle with parsley. Serve immediately.
My notes: When I make this for my husband, I don't use mushrooms because neither one of us care for them...it's a texture thing. I love the taste they bring to dishes but I can't eat them. However, when I make this for other people I add them and they're a hit. You should be able to find marsala cooking wine in any grocery store. I don't use real marsala wine, even though all the Food Network chefs say you should use real wine instead of cooking wine, but sorry, no one in my house is going to drink marsala wine. Go cheap and buy the cooking wine, it's delicious. I use dried parsley instead of fresh.
Chicken Marsala (from MarthaStewart.com)
Serves 4
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons coarse salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 5 ounces each), butterflied
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 ounces white button mushrooms, sliced
2 cups sweet Marsala wine
1 clove garlic, finely minced
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (of 1 lemon)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
Combine flour, salt, and pepper in a large shallow dish; set aside. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Dredge chicken in seasoned flour, tapping off excess; set aside. Add oil to skillet. When oil is shimmering, add chicken, and cook until lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Turn over, and cook 3 minutes more. Remove chicken to a plate; set aside and keep warm.
Heat 2 tablespoons butter in same skillet. Add mushrooms, and cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are golden brown and all the released liquid has evaporated, 5 to 7 minutes.
Remove skillet from heat, and add wine. Return skillet to heat, scraping up any brown bits with a wooden spoon. Add garlic, lemon juice, remaining 2 tablespoons butter, and parsley. Cook for 2 minutes until reduced and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust for seasoning. Pour sauce over chicken and sprinkle with parsley. Serve immediately.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Pasta e Fagioli
I love this soup for so many reasons. I feel like I sound like a broken record, but it's cheap to make and so easy it's stupid. My favorite thing about this soup is that it tastes JUST like the Pasta e Fagioli from the Olive Garden, which I love way too much. It's savory, a little spicy and so comforting. This recipe makes 4 quarts of soup so you can easily freeze this for another day! I think it tastes even better when all the flavors have time to get acquainted. I got the recipe from a message board a few years ago when I was on this diet called First Place. So, it's healthy too!
My notes: This calls for ground beef but you could certainly use ground turkey...sometimes I prefer the turkey against the beef. Please, oh please, drain the beans. After making this so many times I'm not sure I can ever use the gunk (what is that liquid anyway?) that the beans are packed in. It grosses me out. Drain and rinse please-and-thank-you. For the spaghetti sauce, I usually use Hunts Traditional sauce. It doesn't come in 32oz cans, so I use one whole one plus about half of another. I usually use ditalini pasta, like the Olive Garden does, instead of shell pasta. I also use dried parsley. You must serve this with crusty bread...there will be so much goodness at the bottom of your bowl that you'll want to sop up. TRUST ME! :)
Pasta e Fagioli
Serves: 12
Ingredients:
1/2 cup water, divided
1 lb. extra lean ground beef
1 cup onion, chopped
1 cup carrots, slivered
1 cup celery, diced
2 14.4 ounce diced canned tomatoes
1 cup canned red kidney beans, drained
1 cup canned white kidney beans, drained
5 1/2 cups beef stock
2 teaspoons leaf oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
32 ounces spaghetti sauce, no sugar added
4 ounces dry shell pasta
Preparation: Saute beef in 1/4 cup water in a large 8-quart pot until beef starts to brown. Drain. Add 1/4 cup water onions, carrots, celery and tomatoes and simmer for about 10 minutes. Drain and rinse beans and add to pot. Also add beef stock, oregano, pepper, Tabasco, spaghetti sauce, and noodles. Add chopped parsley. Simmer until celery and carrots are tender, about 45 minutes. Makes about 5 quarts of soup! Make at least one day before serving for best flavor. Freezes wonderfully. Serving size 1 1/2 cups.
My notes: This calls for ground beef but you could certainly use ground turkey...sometimes I prefer the turkey against the beef. Please, oh please, drain the beans. After making this so many times I'm not sure I can ever use the gunk (what is that liquid anyway?) that the beans are packed in. It grosses me out. Drain and rinse please-and-thank-you. For the spaghetti sauce, I usually use Hunts Traditional sauce. It doesn't come in 32oz cans, so I use one whole one plus about half of another. I usually use ditalini pasta, like the Olive Garden does, instead of shell pasta. I also use dried parsley. You must serve this with crusty bread...there will be so much goodness at the bottom of your bowl that you'll want to sop up. TRUST ME! :)
Pasta e Fagioli
Serves: 12
Ingredients:
1/2 cup water, divided
1 lb. extra lean ground beef
1 cup onion, chopped
1 cup carrots, slivered
1 cup celery, diced
2 14.4 ounce diced canned tomatoes
1 cup canned red kidney beans, drained
1 cup canned white kidney beans, drained
5 1/2 cups beef stock
2 teaspoons leaf oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
32 ounces spaghetti sauce, no sugar added
4 ounces dry shell pasta
Preparation: Saute beef in 1/4 cup water in a large 8-quart pot until beef starts to brown. Drain. Add 1/4 cup water onions, carrots, celery and tomatoes and simmer for about 10 minutes. Drain and rinse beans and add to pot. Also add beef stock, oregano, pepper, Tabasco, spaghetti sauce, and noodles. Add chopped parsley. Simmer until celery and carrots are tender, about 45 minutes. Makes about 5 quarts of soup! Make at least one day before serving for best flavor. Freezes wonderfully. Serving size 1 1/2 cups.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
HoBo Special
This is an old family recipe that I love to make when I a) have no money or b) have no time. You could make this meal for less than $5 and in about 10-15 minutes! It's not gourmet by any means but it's not supposed to be. I mean, it's called "HoBo Special" for a reason! It's one of those feel-good, comforting meals. My Great-Grandma made this during the Great Depression, so it's time-tested and approved!
My notes: I almost always make this meal a little differently than the time before but I will give you the classic recipe. You can swap out ground beef for ground turkey if you'd like. It would save some calories and some $$. You can also substitute whole wheat pasta for regular pasta, but that will up the price. I don't measure the garlic powder...put in a good amount and then keep tasting. You don't want it too garlicky but you want flavor. I usually put in a few shakes of Tabasco or even some red pepper flakes for a little heat. The hubby likes it hot! You can serve this with a small salad and garlic bread.
HoBo Special
1 lb ground beef
3/4 lb elbow macaroni
2 14oz cans of Campbell's Tomato Soup
Lots of garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
Start by boiling some water in a small pot. Pour in the elbow macaroni until it's al dente. Meanwhile, brown the ground beef/turkey and drain out any excess fat. While still on the heat, pour in the 2 cans of tomato soup and stir to combine. Add in the garlic powder, salt & pepper to taste. Simmer for about 5-10 minutes. Add the macaroni and stir to combine. Top with parmesan cheese if desired.
My notes: I almost always make this meal a little differently than the time before but I will give you the classic recipe. You can swap out ground beef for ground turkey if you'd like. It would save some calories and some $$. You can also substitute whole wheat pasta for regular pasta, but that will up the price. I don't measure the garlic powder...put in a good amount and then keep tasting. You don't want it too garlicky but you want flavor. I usually put in a few shakes of Tabasco or even some red pepper flakes for a little heat. The hubby likes it hot! You can serve this with a small salad and garlic bread.
HoBo Special
1 lb ground beef
3/4 lb elbow macaroni
2 14oz cans of Campbell's Tomato Soup
Lots of garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
Start by boiling some water in a small pot. Pour in the elbow macaroni until it's al dente. Meanwhile, brown the ground beef/turkey and drain out any excess fat. While still on the heat, pour in the 2 cans of tomato soup and stir to combine. Add in the garlic powder, salt & pepper to taste. Simmer for about 5-10 minutes. Add the macaroni and stir to combine. Top with parmesan cheese if desired.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Picante Roast Beef Sandwiches
This is one of those meals where you don't need to know anything about cooking to make this. It's foolproof, I promise. It's also cheap to make, has less than 10 ingredients, isn't bad for you and will be done in less than 30 minutes. That all adds up to a great weeknight meal, don't you think?
My notes: I do everything the recipe says but add cilantro. I just wish I could go to the grocery store and only get like 2-3 sprigs of cilantro instead of a whole bunch. I just don't need or want that much cilantro and I hate wasting the money. So, add it if you want but you won't necessarily miss the flavor if you don't add it. Enjoy!
Picante Roast Beef Sandwiches (from FoodNetwork.com)
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 cup diced onions
2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced
12 ounces sliced roast beef, sliced into strips
1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (4-ounce) can minced green chiles
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Salt and ground black pepper
4 sandwich rolls, sliced in 1/2
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and saute 3 minutes, until soft. Add roast beef slices and saute 3 to 5 minutes, until browned on all sides, stirring frequently. Add tomatoes, jalapenos, lime juice, and cumin and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook 5 minutes, to heat through and reduce slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in cilantro. Season, to taste, with salt and black pepper. Spoon onto sliced rolls with plenty of sauce and serve.
My notes: I do everything the recipe says but add cilantro. I just wish I could go to the grocery store and only get like 2-3 sprigs of cilantro instead of a whole bunch. I just don't need or want that much cilantro and I hate wasting the money. So, add it if you want but you won't necessarily miss the flavor if you don't add it. Enjoy!
Picante Roast Beef Sandwiches (from FoodNetwork.com)
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 cup diced onions
2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced
12 ounces sliced roast beef, sliced into strips
1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (4-ounce) can minced green chiles
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Salt and ground black pepper
4 sandwich rolls, sliced in 1/2
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and saute 3 minutes, until soft. Add roast beef slices and saute 3 to 5 minutes, until browned on all sides, stirring frequently. Add tomatoes, jalapenos, lime juice, and cumin and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook 5 minutes, to heat through and reduce slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in cilantro. Season, to taste, with salt and black pepper. Spoon onto sliced rolls with plenty of sauce and serve.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Happy Thanksgiving!
Happy Thanksgiving! No recipes for a few days while I enjoy time with my family! Enjoy!
~Jenn
~Jenn
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Chicken Souvlaki
Mmmm Greek food. This dish always makes me think of this little hole-in-the-wall restaurant near our home called "My Big Fat Greek Restaurant". I love the name and their food is phenomenol. Everything is light blue and white and their servers and employees are actually Greek. Their souvlaki is delicious and when I found this recipe, I had to try it. It's close enough to the real thing for me! And a LOT cheaper!
My notes: I've made this dish twice and haven't made the yogurt (tzatziki) sauce. I think I'm just scared of cucumbers. I really hate them. I'll try it next time. Promise! I also don't like olives so I omit those. Enjoy!
Chicken Souvlaki (from RealSimple.com)
4 pieces flat bread or pitas
2 tomatoes, cut into wedges
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
3/4 cup crumbled Feta
1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into pieces
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 small cucumber, diced
1 1/2 tablespoons minced fresh dill
Heat oven to 200° F. Wrap the bread in foil and place in oven.
In a medium bowl, combine the tomatoes, onion, Feta, and olives.
In a large bowl, combine the oregano, thyme, pepper, 1 1/2 teaspoons of the vinegar, and the lemon juice. Slowly add 4 tablespoons of the oil in a steady stream, whisking constantly until incorporated.
Pour 2 1/2 tablespoons of the vinaigrette over the tomato mixture, toss, and set aside. Add the chicken to the remaining vinaigrette, toss, and set aside.
Heat the remaining oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Transfer the chicken but not the liquid to the skillet and heat, turning occasionally, until cooked through, about 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the yogurt, cucumber, dill, and the remaining vinegar. Spread the bread with some of the yogurt sauce and top with the chicken. Add the tomato salad and fold.
My notes: I've made this dish twice and haven't made the yogurt (tzatziki) sauce. I think I'm just scared of cucumbers. I really hate them. I'll try it next time. Promise! I also don't like olives so I omit those. Enjoy!
Chicken Souvlaki (from RealSimple.com)
4 pieces flat bread or pitas
2 tomatoes, cut into wedges
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
3/4 cup crumbled Feta
1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into pieces
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 small cucumber, diced
1 1/2 tablespoons minced fresh dill
Heat oven to 200° F. Wrap the bread in foil and place in oven.
In a medium bowl, combine the tomatoes, onion, Feta, and olives.
In a large bowl, combine the oregano, thyme, pepper, 1 1/2 teaspoons of the vinegar, and the lemon juice. Slowly add 4 tablespoons of the oil in a steady stream, whisking constantly until incorporated.
Pour 2 1/2 tablespoons of the vinaigrette over the tomato mixture, toss, and set aside. Add the chicken to the remaining vinaigrette, toss, and set aside.
Heat the remaining oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Transfer the chicken but not the liquid to the skillet and heat, turning occasionally, until cooked through, about 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the yogurt, cucumber, dill, and the remaining vinegar. Spread the bread with some of the yogurt sauce and top with the chicken. Add the tomato salad and fold.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Sweet and Sour Pork
Something you will learn about me very soon is that I love Asian cuisine...well, most of it, anyway. I don't do sushi but I like most everything else. There's just something about the combination of the sweet peppers and sour pineapple that make this dish so tasty. It's sauteed, not fried (so you actually taste the meat, not the breading!) and, amazingly enough, it'll be ready in 30 minutes! I'm making this tomorrow night for dinner!
My notes: I don't use scallions because they come in a bunch at the grocery store, I never use them all and inevitably throw them away and feel bad later. The rice is fine without them, but do what you want! Also, I don't use fresh pineapple, again, because it's a waste for us. I usually buy canned pineapple tidbits and add a little of the juice to the sauce for extra flavor. If you don't want to use pork, chicken, shrimp or beef would be equally delicious!
Sweet and Sour Pork (from RachaelRay.com)
2 cups water
1 cup white or brown rice
2 scallions, finely chopped
2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
1 tablespoon hot sauce
Juice of 1 lime
3 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons soy sauce or Tamari (dark soy sauce)
3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
1 can tomato sauce (8 ounces)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 package pork tenderloins, trimmed of silver skin and cut into 1-inch dice
2 cloves garlic, grated or finely chopped
1 inch ginger, peeled and grated
2 green bell peppers, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
6 slices fresh pineapple, drained and cut into 1-inch pieces
Freshly ground black pepper
Bring the water to a boil in a medium size pot with a lid. Add the rice and give it a stir, then put the lid on and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the rice until tender, about 18 minutes. Once it’s ready, fluff it with a fork and stir in the scallions.When the rice is about halfway done, place a large skillet over high heat with two turns of the pan of oil, about 2 tablespoons. While the pan is heating up, grab a small bowl and combine the hot sauce, lime juice, honey, Tamari, vinegar, tomato sauce and cornstarch, stirring to dissolve the cornstarch. Set the sauce aside.When the skillet is searing hot, add in the pork and cook the meat until caramelized, 3-4 minutes. Add in the garlic, ginger, peppers and onions, and stir fry the meat and veggies for 2 minutes more. Add in the pineapple and reserved sauce and stir everything together. Bring the sauce to a boil and allow it to cook for 1 minute to thicken up.Season everything with some ground black pepper and serve the sweet 'n sour pork over the scallion rice.
My notes: I don't use scallions because they come in a bunch at the grocery store, I never use them all and inevitably throw them away and feel bad later. The rice is fine without them, but do what you want! Also, I don't use fresh pineapple, again, because it's a waste for us. I usually buy canned pineapple tidbits and add a little of the juice to the sauce for extra flavor. If you don't want to use pork, chicken, shrimp or beef would be equally delicious!
Sweet and Sour Pork (from RachaelRay.com)
2 cups water
1 cup white or brown rice
2 scallions, finely chopped
2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
1 tablespoon hot sauce
Juice of 1 lime
3 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons soy sauce or Tamari (dark soy sauce)
3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
1 can tomato sauce (8 ounces)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 package pork tenderloins, trimmed of silver skin and cut into 1-inch dice
2 cloves garlic, grated or finely chopped
1 inch ginger, peeled and grated
2 green bell peppers, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
6 slices fresh pineapple, drained and cut into 1-inch pieces
Freshly ground black pepper
Bring the water to a boil in a medium size pot with a lid. Add the rice and give it a stir, then put the lid on and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the rice until tender, about 18 minutes. Once it’s ready, fluff it with a fork and stir in the scallions.When the rice is about halfway done, place a large skillet over high heat with two turns of the pan of oil, about 2 tablespoons. While the pan is heating up, grab a small bowl and combine the hot sauce, lime juice, honey, Tamari, vinegar, tomato sauce and cornstarch, stirring to dissolve the cornstarch. Set the sauce aside.When the skillet is searing hot, add in the pork and cook the meat until caramelized, 3-4 minutes. Add in the garlic, ginger, peppers and onions, and stir fry the meat and veggies for 2 minutes more. Add in the pineapple and reserved sauce and stir everything together. Bring the sauce to a boil and allow it to cook for 1 minute to thicken up.Season everything with some ground black pepper and serve the sweet 'n sour pork over the scallion rice.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Welcome!
Welcome to For the Love of Food! I'm Jenn. I love to eat and cook, but mostly eat! I'm a wife and mother. Most of my recipes are for families who want to make amazing meals designed to impress but not stress you out. Some are my own, some are from cookbooks, family members and friends. All are delicious! Enjoy!
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