tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59526753362016606612012-02-01T17:56:40.369-07:00Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.comBlogger3881100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-63140719832130095812011-10-24T14:48:00.000-06:002011-10-24T14:48:21.523-06:00

I recently had a large box of peaches on my kitchen counter that needed to be eaten (they’re gone now…. and oh how I miss them.)  I flipped through some of my recipe notebooks and rediscovered this recipe for Oatmeal Peach Cobbler.  I had forgotten how much I loved it.  Especially when it is piping-hot from the oven.  Now I have a large box of apples, and I’m wondering if an Oatmeal Apple

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-40903423784024137032011-07-12T15:38:00.003-06:002011-10-18T23:43:31.255-06:00

Come to find out that this bread makes a mean panini.  So. Very. Good.  Add a little pesto, some fresh mozzarella and a few slices of tomatoes from your garden and you have an easy dinner. Another version we had was with pesto and some leftover grilled vegetables (zucchini, onions, red peppers.)  They were amazing.  For the kids I use the same bread, spread it with a little (usually

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-30835087933988984722011-05-18T14:52:00.000-06:002011-05-18T14:52:00.945-06:00

I don’t eat a lot of dairy.  I can’t eat it.  It makes me quite sick.  Not many years ago I had no such problem, and enjoyed a daily (oh yeah) bowl of ice cream.  I miss my daily bowl of ice cream.  Last week I was perusing my friend’s raw food blog and came across her recipe for a dessert chocolate shake.   I had all of the ingredients so I thought I’d try it out.  (Well, I didn’t have

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-90017007565048061582011-05-04T06:45:00.001-06:002011-05-04T06:45:00.661-06:00

My local grocery store has started doing something which I think is akin to brilliance.  Each week they feature two recipes, and in a certain section of the store they have stacked everything you need to create the recipe – including a paper bag w/ handles to tote it all away in.  Just today as I was bagging some onions, I saw two shoppers stop and grab that brown bag and a copy of the recipe.

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-87616069454496848512011-05-02T22:42:00.000-06:002011-05-02T22:42:12.062-06:00

This recipe is one of our family’s newest Sunday favorites:  Baked Lemon Chicken with New Potatoes and Vegetables.  For me, it is a perfect Sunday dinner.  It’s easy, it is flexible AND it’s delicious (the kids love it!)  Good combo.  Even if you’re not a big fan of lemon, there’s a good chance you’ll like this one.  It’s not overly-lemony.  In fact, you are in control of just how lemony

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-16323674999127740962011-04-30T06:53:00.000-06:002011-04-30T06:53:00.096-06:00

My current favorite:  Rustic Pan Bread.  The recipe can be found here, although there are no “after” pics on that post.  I love, love love this bread.  So fast.  So easy.  No kneading.  In these photos I topped the bread with some melted butter, rosemary, garlic powder and a pinch of kosher salt.  Next time I’m trying some thinly sliced tomatoes before baking, and a sprinkle of fresh basil

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-33355116868952826582011-04-28T22:06:00.000-06:002011-04-28T22:06:58.447-06:00

This stuff is amazing.  Rich.  Very rich.  But oh so good.  It doesn’t make a lot, so if you’re needing to serve more than 5 or 6 people then make a double batch.  I made the recipe as-is, and I would recommend reading some of the reviews – there’s a lot of great tips in there (for instance, how to properly whip cream without over-beating.)  link to recipe for Heavenly Chocolate Mousse

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-39311294632431711732011-02-11T06:55:00.004-07:002011-02-11T06:55:00.150-07:00

As I mentioned a few days ago, I love barley.  Love.  I thought you might like to know more about this under utilized grain. Barley is the fourth largest grain crop after wheat, rice and corn. It is grown all over the world Barley is a great source of dietary fiber and contains both soluble and insoluble fiber. Barley is naturally cholesterol-free and low in fat.  A 1/2-cup serving of cooked

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-83072000151689766532011-02-10T06:08:00.003-07:002011-02-10T06:08:00.680-07:00

[photo from Pleasant Home] Jodi over at Pleasant Home has some great Valentine’s Day treat ideas.  I just love these candy cane lollipops! [photo from Pleasant Home] On a side note:  sometimes I think it’s unfortunate that our kids can’t take homemade treats to school anymore.  I really do understand the reason for the policy, but when Valentine’s Day rolls around it seems quite

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-12915603312953525662011-02-08T14:07:00.004-07:002011-10-18T23:46:31.085-06:00

When I think about all of the Sunday afternoons of my childhood, what comes to mind is our lunches:  soup and sandwiches.  I’m not sure just how often we actually ate it, but from where I stand now it seems like it was pretty much every week.  It was always the perfect just-home-from-church meal.  Having soup and sandwiches for lunch meant a can or two of some variety of Campbell’s soup and

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-26604663771069500122011-01-31T16:55:00.000-07:002011-01-31T16:55:38.504-07:00

I tried this recipe for Orange Brownies a couple of weeks ago.  Of course I can’t leave a recipe alone, so I tried them with lemon instead of orange.  The lemon version was just okay – I found myself wishing they were just regular (and delicious) lemon bars.  Next time I’m sticking with the original orange version.  Here is a link to a gluten free version of orange brownies.  I haven’t tried

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-90372275778683637342011-01-30T17:30:00.001-07:002011-01-30T17:31:34.927-07:00

Monday – Robyn’s Roast, brown rice Tuesday -  Sloppy Joe Sliders, fruit salad, oven fries Wednesday – Taco Bar! (Chicken or beef tacos with all of the topping options) Thursday – Fajita Chicken Quesadillas Friday – eat out Saturday – let’s be honest.  We’ll probably eat out.  Sunday – Chicken Piccata (I’ll make this version, although there’s a alternative version here.) [Linking to Menu Plan

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-9103587907854615052011-01-08T09:44:00.000-07:002011-01-08T09:44:34.177-07:00

There's an interesting article over on the Jacob's Cove blog.  Even though it mentions specific stores here in our local area, I'm sure with a little bit of investigation you could find bulk spices where you live as well.  Some friends of mine have also gone in together to purchase bulk spices and herbs from the San Fransisco Herb Co. Have a great weekend everyone! --andy

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-74366936499328748192011-01-07T05:28:00.003-07:002011-10-18T23:49:09.380-06:00

Isn’t there a Seinfeld quote to go with pretty much every situation?  Kramer: “A hot bowl of mulligatawny would hit the spot.” Elaine: “Mulligatawny?” Kramer: “Yes, it’s a delightful Hindu concoction simmered to perfection by one of the great soup artisans in the modern era.” That has to be one of my all-time favorite episodes.  Ever. Last year on a visit to one of our favorite local

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-63989236544913182162011-01-05T16:31:00.001-07:002011-10-18T23:49:47.804-06:00

Oranges are just so lovely and delicious right now.  I saw them all heaped up at the grocery store yesterday,  just calling my name. Today for lunch I combined some orange segments with romaine, thinly sliced red onions, toasted walnuts and crumbled feta.  I tossed it all in a fresh citrusy vinaigrette.  It brought just a bit of sunshine to an otherwise cold and wintery day.  Citrus

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-51987177151098025602010-12-23T14:45:00.001-07:002010-12-23T14:45:49.726-07:00

And the winner is..... Brielle!    Thanks to everyone who entered the giveaway - I wish I could send all of you a subscription!  I'll have another giveaway coming up in January.  In the meantime, have a very Merry Christmas and enjoy your holiday baking! Here are some yummies that are now on my "I have to try that" list:  Caramel Cream Puff Pops (from Dinner With Julie)  Melted Snowman

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-30039732624560215782010-12-16T15:14:00.000-07:002010-12-16T15:14:11.274-07:00

Anyone want to win a year’s subscription to Cooking Light magazine?   It’s my current favorite (see this post), and it’s one of my most trusted resources for new recipes.  I need to renew my subscription and when I went to the site I noticed that right now they’re having a 2-for-1 deal on subscriptions.  I thought I would give the other subscription away to one of my readers.  To enter, simply

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-45229877396724311382010-12-13T14:54:00.000-07:002010-12-13T14:54:21.186-07:00

Menus two weeks in a row - this has got to be some kind of record for me, right? You may notice that the Slow Cooker Ragu was also on my menu for Sunday last week.  Sunday morning came and I pulled out everything for the ragu and THEN realized that we had no egg noodles.  So I pushed that dinner to today and we had whole wheat waffles instead YUM! I must say that I'm looking forward to having

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-20439673614963791332010-12-09T06:50:00.003-07:002010-12-09T13:09:02.173-07:00

[photo courtesy of Vintage Pollyanna] Oh man this looks good!  I was doing some surfing for another hobby of mine and I came across this blog: Vintage Pollyanna Allison has some really cute craft ideas, along with some yummy looking recipes.  This one for Chocolate Bark took me on a short trip down memory lane.  Back in college I went to visit a friend of mine at her apartment.  She offered me

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-91201035925410165362010-12-08T06:32:00.000-07:002010-12-08T06:32:00.629-07:00

I’ll save you the trouble….   it looks better than it tastes.   I know, I know..  You could have told me that, right?  Store bought cookie dough, topped with marshmallows and m&ms.  Really it comes down to the fact that each of the ingredients are just plain better on their own.  Well, except the cookie dough.  It was extremely salty.  It’s been years since I’ve bought that stuff and now I

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-29780055280993705782010-12-07T14:19:00.000-07:002010-12-07T14:19:15.366-07:00

Confession:  I’m not doing such a great job with posting my menus lately.  However, I have a new tool that will help me keep on top of things.  More on that later.  Now here’s what we’re feasting on this week: Monday – Lime Chicken Soft Tacos (& homemade salsa) Tuesday – Skillet Baked Ziti, french bread, roasted carrots Wednesday – BBQ Chicken Salad (w/ a yummy BBQ Vinaigrette) Thursday – BBQ

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-84764021718985227442010-11-22T10:56:00.002-07:002010-11-22T10:58:09.479-07:00

I can smell the turkey already, can’t you?  In my pre-Thanksgiving planning, today’s task is to decide on some cute place cards to add to the table.  I’m looking for something on the simple side, and hopefully something that my 9 year old could help with.  This morning I did a quick search for some Thanksgiving place card ideas and thought I would share my top five.   Do you have ideas?  Leave a

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-86884270544115803982010-11-05T05:56:00.000-06:002010-11-05T05:56:00.245-06:00

On my once-a-month trip through Costco today I spotted this: Several years ago when we lived in California, Panera was one of our favorite lunch spots.  Alas, Panera has yet to open a location here in Utah.  This Broccoli Cheddar Soup was one of Mr. Dinner’s on Me’s favorites.  He’d order the soup in a bread bowl and if I wanted a taste I had to get it quick before it disappeared. Once we

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-12009641282027876842010-11-03T05:45:00.006-06:002010-11-22T10:57:58.909-07:00

[Dipped Nutter Butter ghosts spotted here]Look at these cute little ghosts!  Oh man I wish I would have seen these BEFORE Halloween.  Dang.  Now I just have to remember to do these for next year.  Thanks for the cute idea Chris!

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-20420665110034269712010-11-01T22:32:00.001-06:002010-11-22T10:58:52.322-07:00

As promised, here is a recipe that will come in handy now that we all have bowls of candy (a.k.a. bribery ammunition) stashed somewhere in our homes. This recipe is found on the last page of this month’s Everyday Food mini-mag (October 2010).  It’s also found online here. First of all, has anyone else already tried this recipe?  I made one batch of the shortbread dough last night and tasted it

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-48640051916785563892010-10-30T06:14:00.001-06:002010-10-30T06:14:00.948-06:00

Happy Halloween my fellow food-loving friends. I bought these cute little pumpkins and squashes to sit in a bowl in the center of my table. Within minutes my toddler decided they were toys. They’ve been rolled, kicked, thrown and lined up on my window sill. Anyone else expecting a deluge of candy today and tomorrow? Don’t be too quick to toss it all out like you usually do. (I know

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-70223614419432282152010-10-29T06:49:00.002-06:002010-10-29T06:49:00.615-06:00

My sister is to blame for this next recipe. Yes. Blame. They are little bite-sized muffins that taste like donut holes. Why not just make donut holes you ask? Well because these are just as good, they are quick to mix up using things you most likely have in your pantry AND (a big bonus) they don’t get fried in oil. These are the perfect little bite of fall-esque goodness. Mix a batch

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-2409123379554013882010-10-27T23:30:00.002-06:002011-10-18T23:54:36.097-06:00

Recently I overheard someone say how it is more time consuming to cook healthy meals.  For the most part I disagree.  I know there are a lot of fancy-shmancy recipes out there that are healthy and quite complicated.  But cooking healthy doesn’t need to be complicated.  For me, it just takes a little planning. For example – tonight’s dinner.  Hubby was working late and kids wanted spaghetti.  I

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-28913002863976636022010-10-14T07:01:00.001-06:002010-12-07T13:54:12.988-07:00

Need a simple but impressive dessert? These babies are microwaved! I know – I was skeptical too. Here’s a link to the original recipe. Of course I made a couple of changes. I didn’t have any vanilla ice cream on hand, but I did have heavy cream. I used 1/4 cup of heavy cream, with a bit (maybe 1/8 tsp?) of vanilla and a sprinkling of cinnamon to taste. I loved the addition of the cinnamon

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-14597256978758584512010-10-11T23:41:00.001-06:002010-12-07T13:55:00.040-07:00

Hawaiian Beef Teriyaki Skewers were a favorite with us this summer. We buy our top sirloin from Costco and it’s oh so good. Be sure to soak your wooden skewers in some water before grilling. Serve with grilled or fresh pineapple, rice and a green salad.

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-8252599488930855652010-10-10T23:32:00.001-06:002010-10-10T23:32:05.804-06:00

We’re not big burger eaters, but when we do have burgers at home this is the recipe we use: Bacon Wrapped Hamburgers We use the recipe for the burger patties, but we don’t bother to do the bacon-wrapping part.  If you still need bacon on your burger then add it on top along with the lettuce, tomato & pickles.  Oh these are delicious.  And just look how lovely the ingredients are in the bowl

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-21900954947787492822010-09-28T22:52:00.001-06:002010-09-28T22:52:24.417-06:00

Last Summer the peach surpassed the strawberry as my favorite fruit.  Blueberries made a quick trip to the best-seller list last spring, but then August came along and brought with her hundreds of lovely peaches.  I was so sad when peach season ended last year and so I was determined to make peachfest 2010 last as long as I could.   So for the past week I have been canning some Lemon Elbertas.

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-24595506283308776962010-09-27T07:43:00.002-06:002011-10-19T00:00:04.691-06:00

I haven’t been in a soup-mood for quite some time. Months, actually. Something changed this week (uh, like the weather) and I’m starting to bring my soups back into the rotation. Vegetarian Chili is one of the first soups to make an appearance each fall; it uses some of those fresh garden veggies, and doesn’t have that heavy-made-from-loads-of-cream feeling. Oh and the leftovers are amazing!

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-48143195042078591672010-09-24T07:02:00.000-06:002010-09-24T07:02:00.200-06:00

I realized today (with a bit of a heavy heart) that it is Fall. Every year I have to be dragged (kicking and screaming) into Fall. I cling to the last bits of Summer any way I can. However, when it looks like this: (the view near Sundance, Utah) I have to admit that Fall is here. There is no denying it. The leaves are changing, General Conference is around the corner, and I feel like

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-6221114956596799092010-09-20T13:48:00.001-06:002010-09-20T13:48:16.126-06:00

  Monday – hamburgers, carrot sticks, peaches Tuesday – spaghetti with a chunky pomodoro sauce, green beans, bruschetta Wednesday – mozzarella/tomato/basil pesto panini Thursday – vegetarian chili & skillet cornbread Friday – eat out Saturday – yo-yo dinner Sunday – beef stew, rolls    

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-26827324720592468472010-09-17T14:02:00.002-06:002010-09-17T14:08:01.060-06:00

I admit it. I am totally out of the habit of blogging. Somewhere in June I got tired of photographing everything before I ate it. I stopped taking detailed notes about how much of this and that I tossed into the pot. For a weekly menu I just scribbled down a list of things I thought would be delicious, without concern for what day each meal would fall on. I did keep cooking. And I did

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-88195107314673421652010-08-23T07:37:00.000-06:002010-08-23T07:37:00.098-06:00

I have a few rules that I try to live by. Rule #1: Create a weekly menu when I’m hungry. (It doesn’t go so well if I try to make a menu when I’m stuffed.) Rule #2: Grocery shop when I’m NOT hungry. (If I shop when I’m hungry I end up buying things like funions. Weird.) Rule #3: Don’t watch any type of cooking show on an empty stomach. (Otherwise I end up trying out EVERY recipe from

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-87817713055258367642010-08-22T16:52:00.003-06:002010-08-22T16:52:00.266-06:00

Monday – grilled pizzas, green salad Tuesday - grilled chicken, roasted carrots/potatoes/corn Wednesday – Lemon Fusilli, bruschetta Thursday – gyros with tzatziki sauce Friday – eat out Saturday – Panzanella & Sweet Corn Puree Sunday – Swiss Steak (slow cooker), fruit salad Sweet Corn Puree

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-26403103450798168302010-08-20T15:55:00.002-06:002010-08-20T15:56:07.192-06:00

I’m here. I’ve just been busy. Some of my time has been taken up with trying to make some changes to my computer. For the past month I feel as if my computer has been non-functioning more than it’s been functioning. All better now though. I’ve also been caring for and eating from our garden. Honestly, the actual gardening doesn’t take that much time – maybe 15 minutes each day to water

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-91022767595199315872010-07-24T07:48:00.001-06:002010-07-24T07:48:00.734-06:00

I really enjoy my daily newspaper reading. Growing up we always subscribed to the daily paper and I enjoyed flipping through it as I ate breakfast. Ok let’s be honest – I only looked at the ads and comics. When I went to college a daily paper subscription was a splurge so it didn’t happen. Later, when I could afford the splurge I realized that everything was online anyway and it was

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-74064331983481461962010-07-22T07:10:00.000-06:002010-07-22T07:10:00.137-06:00

Once upon a time I had a job as an aide at a Jr High School. During that same year my friend and roommate worked at a High School. You know what’s great about that? When the kids get out of school for spring break, so do the aides. My friend decided to spend that one delightful week at her parent’s house in California and invited me to join her. I have to admit that many of my memories of

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-36869649658373929532010-07-20T07:06:00.000-06:002010-07-20T07:06:00.156-06:00

I love, love, love steel cut oatmeal….. in the winter. During the summer it’s a challenge for me to invest that much time into breakfast prep. Honestly, I am normally allotted about 7.5 minutes to make and eat breakfast then my kids are off an running, ready for whatever is next. Occasionally I’ll make a quick bowl of instant oatmeal (this is my current favorite – yum!) But lately

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-46901840325620519182010-07-18T22:31:00.003-06:002010-07-19T07:58:17.170-06:00

This is a photo of some grilled flat bread I made last week. It has nothing to do with this week’s menu. I added the photo because I know there are some of you who don’t read a thing I write – you’re only here for the photos. It’s okay, I know who you are (Gavan.) For the rest of you, here is our menu: Monday - gyros with tzatziki sauce Tuesday – grilled chicken fajitas (

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-46794666051760592522010-07-01T14:07:00.003-06:002010-07-01T14:08:40.514-06:00

Dear Andy, Lunches can be a challenge. I know that. The kids do eventually get sick of PB&J. Cold cereal is NOT an option. They turn their noses up at tuna sandwiches. When that happens, be sure to have some of these refrigerator biscuits on hand. Flatten them with your palm. Top them with some leftover spaghetti sauce, grated mozzarella and a pepperoni or two. Bake them

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-10415688244686669422010-06-30T11:31:00.002-06:002010-06-30T11:39:40.184-06:00

Monday - eat outTuesday - Turkey Club Tortilla Roll UpsWednesday - Grilled Salmon (with Pesto Butter) & Grilled Balsamic VegetablesThursday - Tomato/Mozzarella/Basil Paninis, Lemon FusilliFriday - eat outSaturday - BBQ & "cul-de-sac of FIRE" (one of our more thrilling family traditions)Sunday - Grilled Chicken Fajitas (quesadillas for the kiddos)

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-28339114681441868062010-05-28T13:28:00.000-06:002010-05-28T13:28:00.192-06:00

For years and years I’ve kept a recipe in my back pocket. Not literally of course, but it’s a recipe that I can pull out to serve to family/friends at a few moments notice. It’s quick & sweet and can be dressed up in a variety of ways. It’s called Hot Milk Cake and up until this week it has been my go-to quick dessert. A few days ago I discovered this little beauty in one of my favorite cook

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-50639359944163876892010-05-27T13:36:00.001-06:002010-05-27T13:36:42.672-06:00

  So I hear you all are tired of looking at Black Bean Soup.  I’ve heard your complaints and new posts are on their way.  For now, here’s a new photo for you.  There.  Are you happy now?  :-)

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-1358717720925965902010-03-31T05:13:00.000-06:002010-03-31T05:13:00.095-06:00

I have to give my sister Erin credit for finding this recipe. I really wished she lived closer so she could cook for me. A lot. I must warn you, this recipe makes a rather large pot of soup. It probably would freeze well though and the leftovers make a quick, delicious lunch! Black Bean Soup with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream It’s great served with the sour cream, fresh lime juice,

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-88618220080965016412010-03-29T05:57:00.001-06:002010-03-29T05:57:00.929-06:00

Lunches are a challenge for me. Most days I’m satisfied with a simple turkey sandwich & a handful of carrots. Once in a while I’ll get all fancy-schmancy with a tuna sandwich or maybe even something as exotic as a salad. I know, right? I quickly get tired of the same ol’ fare though. A week or so ago I was perusing an older Cooking Light and found this recipe for Thai Salad with

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-49674078478515735452010-03-26T16:55:00.000-06:002010-03-26T16:55:00.175-06:00

A few weeks ago I had a hankerin’ (I don’t use that word often enough) for a turkey dinner. I bought one of those smaller bone-in turkey breasts and made a scaled down version of Thanksgiving: turkey, potatoes, gravy, green beans & a cranberry salad. It totally hit the spot and the leftovers were delicious – they provided several dinners for us. By mid week, we had eaten all of the side

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-58199505514430067802010-03-25T16:18:00.001-06:002010-03-25T16:18:45.359-06:00

This bread salad is one of my favorite recipes from Ina Garten (The Barefoot Contessa on Food Network).  It’s also one of the loveliest salads I’ve ever made.  Even the garbage bowl is pretty:       The recipe can be found here, along with a printable version so I won’t bother retyping it.  Here are the highlights though!    First, cube your bread:   Then toast it in a skillet with

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-78924841325493337172010-02-23T12:17:00.001-07:002010-02-23T12:17:16.544-07:00

I told you I’d be back next Tuesday.  And look, here I am.   Another question I get asked repeatedly is: “Where do you get your recipe and menu ideas?” A lot of people I talk to find themselves in a rut as far as menu planning goes.  They find themselves making the same 10 or 12 recipes and after a while their family is sick of them.  I used to have that same problem, and that was one of the

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-76754906304910925812010-02-23T11:35:00.001-07:002010-02-23T11:35:29.365-07:00

Monday – Pizza (finally tried Kelly’s recipe…yummy!) Tuesday – Lentil Soup & Skillet Cornbread Wednesday – Veggie Enchiladas, green salad Thursday – eat out Friday – Chicken Tacos Saturday – Sloppy Lentils (sounds weird, I know) Sunday – Turkey, potatoes/gravy, green beans     Need more menu ideas?  Check out Menu Plan Monday at orgjunkie.com

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-66813838480957841992010-02-16T05:44:00.001-07:002010-02-16T05:44:00.552-07:00

There are a few questions that I get asked rather regularly. I thought I would start a little series of posts to answer those questions one at a time.The question I get asked most often is this:"I know what your menu says, but how often do you really eat out?"My answer: It really depends. Most weeks (I'd say 95% of the time) we really do eat out just once. Sometimes it is Friday night (that

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-61930754524999616502010-02-15T17:24:00.001-07:002010-02-15T17:24:55.433-07:00

Monday – BBQ Beef Sandwiches (using leftover roast from yesterday) Tuesday – Cub Scout / Boy Scout Dinner Wednesday – Stuffed Peppers, spinach salad w/ creamy apple dressing Thursday – eat out Friday – pizza (using Kelly’s crust recipe – yay!) Saturday – Black Bean Burritos Sunday – Papas Con Juevos     Need more menu and meal ideas?  Check out Orgjunkie.com

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-62516108563430882542010-02-11T17:15:00.001-07:002010-02-11T17:15:18.675-07:00

Happy Valentine’s Day to my lovely readers!  For those of you who are searching for the perfect Valentine’s treat, I have something for you: It’s called Chocolate Cracked Earth.  It’s an easy, flourless, wonderfully rich, easy cake.  Oh and did I mention easy?  If I ever had the opportunity to have you all over for lunch on a sunny winter afternoon, THIS is what I would serve you for dessert.

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-83500458271173976672010-02-08T11:29:00.001-07:002010-02-08T11:29:38.941-07:00

Monday – Habitant Pea Soup, wheat bread Tuesday – Pizza (testing a new crust recipe) Wednesday – Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry Thursday – Almond-Stuffed Chicken, couscous, green beans Friday – black bean burritos, salsa, fruit Saturday – eat out Sunday – slow cooker roast & potatoes     Need more recipe & menu ideas?  Check out Menu Plan Monday!

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-28775494579061599532010-01-25T15:27:00.000-07:002010-01-25T15:36:45.681-07:00

It seems as though my last few month’s worth of posts have been heavy on the dessert side of things. Sorry about that. Must be the cold winter months bringing out the baker in me. I just have a couple more to share with you and then I’ll get back to boring ol’ healthy stuff. When I first read through this recipe for Meringues Chantilly, I was a bit put off by what seemed like a lot

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-13983050795995356402010-01-21T12:32:00.001-07:002010-01-21T12:32:00.671-07:00

Each month I get a mailer from Thanksgiving Point.  I usually flip through it and then toss it.  This time the list of cooking classes caught my eye.  Check out Lori Bennett’s class. 

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-77535764536785066922010-01-20T12:26:00.001-07:002010-01-20T12:26:47.580-07:00

    If you would have asked me last week how I feel about lentils, I would have told you that I hate them.  No, not a mere dislike.  Hate.  Why?  I have no idea.  I must have tried them at some point in my childhood, but I don’t remember a specific meal.  All I know is that when I saw them in the grocery store I felt like wrinkling up my nose and sticking out my tongue.    Then last year a

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-81066672419017018542010-01-12T12:55:00.001-07:002010-01-12T12:55:24.742-07:00

Stir fry is one of my go-to meals.  I usually have the ingredients on hand, and I can throw it together quickly.  There is no real “recipe” and my stir fry is a bit different every time depending on what’s in my fridge.  Here is the one thing that is always in my stir fry:     Let’s face it, a delicious sauce made with love from fresh ingredients is the best.  But there are days when I have

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-18076481498545741572010-01-10T22:21:00.004-07:002010-01-10T22:41:59.157-07:00

Monday - Beef Stew, fruit saladTuesday - Thin Crust Pizzas, spinach saladWednesday - SW BurritosThursday - Lentil Soup, BreadFriday - eat outSaturday - Mom's Potato Soup, fruit saladSunday - something in the crockpot. Suggestions, anyone??Need more menu ideas? Check out a huge list of links over at orgjunkie.com!

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-11963225554371010042010-01-07T11:52:00.001-07:002010-01-07T11:52:03.061-07:00

I know… I haven’t been around in awhile.  I’ve got posts comin’ though.  Stir fry, anyone?  How about  Crepes?  Meringues?  Oreo Bites?  Panzanella?   Well, for now all I have is this:     The smell is intoxicating.

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-52946482791170902652009-12-15T17:46:00.003-07:002009-12-15T19:32:14.728-07:00

Thank you to all of you who participated in our cookie exchange. I found some really yummy recipes to try out in the coming months! Be sure to check out these recipes from the ladies who used our Mr Linky. Here are some handy links for you to use. Go and give them a visit and say hello. What’s Cooking: Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies Just us Visnaws: Spritz Cookies Jenny: Chocolate

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-78572347506749068852009-12-15T17:15:00.002-07:002009-12-15T17:16:17.957-07:00

For the last day of our virtual cookie exchange, I thought I would end right back where I began – with Tassies. Remember this post about the Pecan Tassies? These were the first cookie that I tried from the BH&G 100 Best Cookies magazine. Well, also found in this same magazine are a variation of these called Fudge Brownie Tassies (follow link & scroll down for recipe). I’m

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-79556756831015265082009-12-13T17:04:00.002-07:002009-12-13T17:05:00.273-07:00

A few weeks ago I had a hankerin’ for some Blondies. A quick search led me to Kim’s blog: Lovin’ From The Oven where I found this recipe for Chewy, Chunky Blondies. The recipe is originally found in Dorie Greenspan’s book: Baking, From My Home to Yours. Does anyone else own this gem? Mr Dinner’s on Me gave it to me last year for Christmas and I sing it’s praises every time I use it.

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-13526093419238601852009-12-13T16:14:00.002-07:002009-12-13T16:16:08.315-07:00

Yes, I know. Day six was yesterday. Just so you know, in my world life comes first, THEN the blog. Yesterday turned out to be more hectic than I planned. But lucky you… you all get two posts today. See? It all works out. For day 6 of our cookie exchange, I’m sharing with you all of the recipes that have been emailed to me over the past week. They all look so very delicious. (I’m

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-44425472079631285472009-12-11T13:28:00.002-07:002009-12-11T14:14:44.604-07:00

I thought for today’s post I would tell you a little more about the giveaway. First of all, the giveaway will close on Monday Dec 14th at Midnight (MST) I’ll post the winner Tuesday morning. So you still have time to either email me your favorite recipe or to add a link to our Mr. Linky. (The button above will take you to the post that has all of the details.) Secondly, I finally have

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-78792170091752464692009-12-10T12:02:00.002-07:002009-12-10T12:06:23.847-07:00

So today is day four of our cookie exchange. We’re halfway through our week o’ cookies already! Many of you have emailed me your favorite cookie recipe (thank you!) and I’ll be adding those to a post on Saturday. Just as a reminder – there are three ways to participate (and thus enter the giveaway). You can email me your recipe, use our Mr Linky, or just leave a comment with a link to the

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-30157968166250871232009-12-09T11:48:00.002-07:002009-12-09T11:49:55.222-07:00

The cookie I’m sharing today is a refreshing Lemon Drop Cookie. I discovered these last December on another blog that I frequent: Oh Fransson! (side note- Elizabeth does some AMAZING work. Check these out.) The cookies are mouth-wateringly good – a little crispy on the outside, a little chewy in the middle and oh-so very lemony. And just look at these beauties! (photo courtesy

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-47461756201286377762009-12-08T12:01:00.002-07:002009-12-09T11:50:15.992-07:00

Happy December 8th everyone. This is what it looked like yesterday at my house. A perfect day for baking, don't you think? That’s my littlest guy trying to figure out what all that white stuff is. Today is day 2 of our virtual cookie exchange! Before I post my recipe for today, I want to remind everyone to post their recipes and/or links back on the first cookie exchange post (

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-3103166244784927032009-12-07T14:12:00.002-07:002009-12-09T11:50:35.708-07:00

A few weeks back there was talk of doing a cookie exchange with the amazing women in our ward. It was cancelled soon after however, but I really liked the idea. So I decided to do a virtual cookie exchange to help us all find just the right recipes for our Holiday baking extravaganzas. (Am I the only one who does a LOT of baking in December??) Here’s how the cookie exchange will work

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-15814651194309664132009-12-07T12:39:00.004-07:002009-12-07T12:54:22.420-07:00

The information for our Virtual Cookie Exchange & giveaway will be posted later today...First things first though - this week's menu:Monday - Shepherd's Pie (using up some leftovers)Tuesday - leftoversWednesday - Honey Hoisin Chicken (crockpot)Thursday - Homemade Veggie PizzaFriday - eat outSaturday - Breakfast for Dinner! Whole Wheat Pancakes, Strawberry SmoothiesSunday - Baked Salmon, Pear &

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-19164479745778293092009-12-02T14:04:00.002-07:002009-12-03T17:48:20.457-07:00

December 7-12Join me, won't you? Find your favorite cookie recipe and get ready for some yummy Christmas baking and a giveaway from yours truly.More info to come. Meanwhile, grab a button -

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-80443742273455717772009-11-30T16:30:00.006-07:002009-11-30T17:30:33.534-07:00

Monday - Baked Rigatoni with Roasted VegetablesTuesday - Tortilla Soup & QuesadillasWednesday - Southwest WrapsThursday - Beef Stroganoff, Rice & Buttery Lemon BroccoliniFriday - eat outSaturday - yet to be decidedSunday - French Toast & Buttermilk SyrupNeed more menu ideas? Check out Menu Plan Monday over at orgjunkie.com

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-76496265156050532092009-11-24T13:11:00.001-07:002009-11-24T13:47:17.412-07:00

Thanksgiving is upon us!  Are you still deciding which side dishes to serve this year?  Maybe these will help!   Cranberry Chutney (recipe here)     Sauteed Green Beans and Garlic (recipe here)     If you’re having guests that are not big pie eaters, try this for dessert: Cranberry Upside-Downer (original post here)     I found a great new Crescent Roll recipe recently too.

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-35950987557431776192009-11-13T17:42:00.002-07:002009-11-13T17:44:04.006-07:00

The other day I was waiting in the eternally-long line at JoAnns and (of course) my toddler became impatient and quite loud. I grabbed the nearest colorful item and handed it to him. It happened to be this magazine. I had no intention of buying it, and I really just thought he would want to look at the fun cover and then would soon become bored with it. Silly me. The

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-22417726479085974782009-11-02T10:34:00.003-07:002009-11-02T10:48:48.321-07:00

Sooo...... I've been absent for a few weeks. Every couple of months this little blog of mine has to take a back seat to real life. Hope no one minds. That's just how it is though, right?Here's our menu for this week. (I'm going easy on myself - we have a lot going on.)Baked Rigatoni with Roasted VegetablesMonday - Tacos, Chips & SalsaTuesday - BBQ Chicken over riceWednesday - Potato Soup,

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-9496243921406621842009-10-05T10:23:00.004-06:002009-10-05T11:13:03.808-06:00

tostadasMonday - Robyn's Meatloaf, baked potatoes & cornTuesday - Chicken & Wild Rice Soup w/ rolls & fruitWednesday - TostadasThursday - Sticky Coconut Chicken, black beans & riceFriday - eat outSaturday - pizzaSunday - Cuban Chicken Salad - yes again! It's really good (scroll down to find the recipe)

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-91648296906410995622009-10-03T13:29:00.003-06:002009-10-03T13:45:42.514-06:00

And the winner is.....Comment #9.....RITA!!!Congratulations to Rita (please email me your mailing address: dinnersonme (at) gmail (dot) com) and thank you to all of you for your comments. It was fun to see what beef recipes you chose from the Beef. It's What's For Dinner website. I thought the Monster Mash Meatball Soup chosen by Kristi was a cute Halloween idea, and the St Pat's Beef Pot Pie

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-83000965189967648062009-10-01T23:08:00.005-06:002009-10-01T23:52:51.283-06:00

Anyone else planning on staying in their jammies until noon this weekend? Here are some yummy brunch ideas for you to enjoy with your families!Oh and a quick reminder to enter the giveaway for the grilling gift bag. I've had a couple of emails about it and I guess I wasn't very clear in my last post - sorry. There are three separate ways you can enter, but you don't have to do all three. Also

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-25255695793714338272009-09-28T20:22:00.008-06:002009-10-03T13:46:33.145-06:00

update: Giveaway is now closed. Thanks everyone!I have two great things going this week: my one hundredth menu post, and the final week of the Beef. It's What's For Dinner Wednesdays Challenge. I have to say that it's been fun to participate in the BIWFD Challenge, and I've learned a bit more about beef after surfing around on their site (like this very handy little chart). As part of the

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-40501439386224620152009-09-27T20:34:00.007-06:002009-09-27T21:17:50.176-06:00

This is my 100th blogged menu! One hundred menus? Are you kidding me? That's a lot of dinners to figure out. I wanted to celebrate this event with a giveaway and as I was deciding what to include in the giveaway, I received an email that helped me make up my mind! For now, all I'm posting is my weekly menu. Check back tomorrow for the giveaway details!Monday - Chicken Cordon Bleu

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-86455698170172204652009-09-25T10:08:00.004-06:002009-09-25T11:09:35.002-06:00

This week's recipe for the Beef. It's What's For Dinner Wednesdays challenge was Beef Pot Roast with Maple Sweet Potatoes.I think that Pot Roast is a tough recipe to recommend to anyone. Most people already have a pot roast recipe that they love, and prefer over all others. I am that way. It was not easy for me to take a lovely little pot roast and put it into a new recipe when I knew

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-19825686900070012402009-09-21T13:13:00.001-06:002009-09-21T13:13:00.381-06:00

Monday - Beef Pot Roast with Maple Sweet PotatoesTuesday - Artichoke & Sun Dried Tomato ChickenWednesday - Chicken BurritosThursday - Chicken Cordon Bleu StrataFriday - SuperMacSaturday - eat outSunday - panini & roasted garden veggiesThis week's treat: Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Caramel SauceNeed more menu ideas? Check out Menu Plan Monday

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-53818979144528864572009-09-21T09:20:00.004-06:002009-09-21T10:48:58.220-06:00

Happy Monday everyone! I just wanted to give you all a heads-up on this week's Beef. It's What's for Dinner Wednesdays challenge recipe. This week it's a perfect-for-fall pot roast, and I am looking forward to it!Here's the link to the recipe: Beef Pot Roast with Maple Sweet PotatoesStick it into your menu for the week, and then either review it on the recipe site, or leave a link to your

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-16026476773482882192009-09-18T11:33:00.005-06:002009-09-18T23:39:01.736-06:00

This week's recipe for the Beef. It's What's For Dinner Wednesdays Challenge is East Meets West Burgers. This is an easy one, guys! If you follow the recipe exactly (which I did this time) then the hamburger patty gets no doctoring, you whip up a quick spicy mayo and while your burger is on the grill, slice up your slaw. This one was on the table quickly.My favorite parts? The yummy mayo

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-46098569210403659412009-09-16T06:27:00.001-06:002009-09-16T06:27:00.490-06:00

This recipe has been in my "recipes to test" binder for at least a year, maybe longer. To be honest with you, the lemon frightened me. No the I'm-going-to-pee-my-pants kind of fright, but the "uh, yeah that doesn't sound good to me" kind of fright. Well, my faithful blog readers, I have a message for you. Fear not the lemon! This stuff is amazing. It's creamy. It's fresh-tasting. It's

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-4804123068305681542009-09-15T06:44:00.001-06:002009-09-15T06:44:00.075-06:00

Anyone else tired of the same ol' Summer fare? I found that we were grilling the same things over and over this Summer. By now I'm pretty much done with my usual burgers and grilled chicken, but I'm NOT done with my grill. This recipe caught my eye, mostly because I had a few pork tenderloins in the freezer.I was worried about all of the Dijon mustard though - I'm not a fan. I had also never

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-68641636517327259152009-09-13T21:31:00.007-06:002009-09-13T22:34:12.375-06:00

Monday - Leftovers (stuffed shells, made with the manicotti recipe)Tuesday - East Meets West Burgers & Aloha ColeslawWednesday - grilled veggie fajitas, chips & salsaThursday - Mustard Chicken with Soy, Ginger and Garlic GlazeFriday - eat outSaturday - Hawaiian Beef Teriyaki Skewers, grilled pineappleSunday - Fried Rice & Ginger Pork PotstickersThis week's treat? Mmmm - I think some Chocolate

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-51118726609599508782009-09-10T20:52:00.010-06:002009-09-11T00:05:25.493-06:00

Not too long ago, I was struggling with really low iron levels. Really low. For months I was under doctor's orders to eat beef as much as possible. After about a week I realized that I only had a handful or so of really good beef recipes. Thus began the challenge to find new recipes to incorporate more red meat into my diet. I really wish I would have found this next recipe back then. It

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-45907885945046239982009-08-25T08:13:00.000-06:002009-08-25T08:13:00.261-06:00

Monday - lemon fusilli with baby spinach (instead of arugula)Tuesday - apple mustard pork skewers & dried currant cous-cousWednesday - bacon wrapped hamburgers & tin foil veggie packetsThursday - Grilled chicken & southwest cracked wheat saladFriday - eat outSaturday - sloppy joe sliders (because things taste better when they're small!)Sunday - I have no idea. Really.

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-26374214653586501892009-08-23T12:39:00.006-06:002009-08-24T17:13:49.066-06:00

Peaches are divine when simply prepared: nice big chunks in a bowl with a sprinkle of sugar and a couple of tablespoons of cream. There's nothing like it. Second best is this dessert: Oatmeal Cookie Peach Cobbler. I found it in my Cooking Light magazine a couple of months ago, but I'm not sure what about this is "light." It certainly doesn't taste "light" and the big scoop of vanilla ice

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-25462634291747973972009-08-17T10:23:00.007-06:002009-08-17T16:30:41.056-06:00

First the important stuff...Monday - grilled chicken, lemon fusilli & some crusty breadTuesday - grilled meatball kabobs, corn on the cob & potato wedgesWednesday - cobb saladsThursday - hawaiian beef terriyaki skewers, grilled pineappleFriday - eat outSaturday - mushroom & ricotta raviolis w/ pesto sauceSunday - french toast, buttermilk syrupYou may have noticed that I haven't been very faithful

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-35838868709738565242009-08-04T08:20:00.001-06:002009-08-17T16:30:29.583-06:00

We're starting to get some tomatoes ready to eat from our garden, and of course we have plenty of basil. I had all of these great things in my fridge, leftover from other meals (well, except the pasta). So I tossed them together for an easy summer meal. We ate it warm that night, but I thought it was also delicious as a cold salad the next day at lunch.It's not really a recipe, but here's what

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-72223691110306757342009-08-02T22:04:00.004-06:002009-08-02T22:26:41.468-06:00

Monday - Cedar Plank Salmon and Roasted Corn RelishTuesday - BBQ Chicken Sandwiches & corn on the cobWednesday - Fresh Pasta PrimaveraThursday - Grilled Chicken & Chickpea SaladFriday - eat outSaturday - TostadasSunday - French Toast w/ Buttermilk SyrupThis week's treat: Oatmeal Cookie-Peach Cobbler (We had it last week and it was so good we'll be having it again this week!)

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-40704184497538565972009-07-24T06:52:00.001-06:002009-07-24T06:52:00.580-06:00

I love the fresh flavor of this sorbet. I could eat gallons and gallons of this stuff. The only downside to this recipe is that you have to plan ahead a little bit - the sugar/water mixture needs to boil and then cool, and the sorbet needs to chill at least 1 hour before freezing.I usually make the sugar/water mixture at breakfast, then stick it in the fridge. Then when I'm back in the kitchen

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-88383145765621570622009-07-22T13:00:00.001-06:002009-07-22T13:08:10.943-06:00

This recipe was originally created from a bunch of leftovers. We had eaten Southwest Chicken Salads a couple of nights before, and I needed to throw together a quick dinner for a busy night. I pulled out all of the salad makings from the fridge, and rolled them up into large tortillas. It was a big hit, and a lot easier for little people to eat.Cilantro Lime Chicken Wrapsingredients:diced,

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-46913827985759722582009-07-21T12:02:00.005-06:002009-07-21T12:08:53.994-06:00

Monday - PizzaTuesday - Baconburger SlidersWednesday - Steaks & Grilled Veggies (Carrots, Potatoes, Zucc, Onions)Thursday - Stir FryFriday - eat outSaturday - Panini (tomato/basil/mozzarella)Sunday - Honey & Spice Glazed Pork Chops, mashed potatoes, green saladThis week's treat: Zucchini Bread (using the 8 Ball Zucchini from the garden!)

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5952675336201660661.post-3288503675395353272009-07-08T08:06:00.008-06:002009-07-08T10:48:51.769-06:00

It seems like there are always two or three bananas that just can't manage to get themselves eaten before they look like this:and when these beauties appear in our kitchen, Mr. DoM's first instinct is to chuck 'em. My first instinct is to make Banana Bread. I was actually waiting for this last batch of bananas to go "bad" because I had a Peanut Butter Banana Bread recipe to test.One of my son's

Andyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01909149683919572585noreply@blogger.com5