New Years Eve Party Appetizers

I can't believe this year is almost over, where did it go??  They seem to go faster every year, ugh.  I always look at it as this next year will be the best yet, and it keeps getting better. :) A good thing to look forward to as the time flies.  This is sort of the "in-between week" after Christmas we have a week until the New Year.  I know that Christmas has so much planning and preparation, this week in-between gives us a little break before the last party(if you have, or go to one) before we get a break, and life slows back down.  I know I really haven't been blogging for too long, so I don't have a ton of different holiday recipes, but I am getting there!  I thought I would make a list of some appetizers I have made this last year to give you all some ideas for the big New Years Eve parties that are just a little ways away.  We all have to get planning now, if you haven't started already, don't worry the break is coming! I hope this will help with planning, and make life a little easier, I know it will for me, because I plan on making at least a couple of these for the party we are having.  Enjoy, and let me know if you make any of these, and if they are a hit at your party!

Tuna Noodle Casserole

My family has been making Tuna Noodle Casserole for as long as I can remember.  It is such a quick and easy casserole to throw together, and most of the ingredients everyone has on hand.  I didn't know what to make for dinner the other night, and decided to open the cupboard, and use up some some canned goods.  My stack has been getting way to big, so I decided to make Tuna Noodle Casserole packed with extra veggies.  You can add just about anything to this casserole.  Get creative! This would probably be good without the tuna too-a veggie noodle bake! Yum! Have fun with this recipe, and try all sorts of different concoctions!

MmmMmm Good!

Chicken Pot Pie with Homemade Crust

Hello readers!  I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas Holiday.  I hope it was spent with as many loved ones as possible.  Now that most of the excitement around Christmas is over, we prepare for the New Year.  We are big kids at heart, and we always have an annual New Years Eve sledding party.  It is SO much fun, and everyone seems to love it, they plan on it before we even plan it ourselves every year.  It's great, and we can't wait.  We just hope there is snow on the ground, and by the looks of it so far, we may not, but we always have fun no matter what. 
Since we are SUPPOSED to have snow by this time of the year, I wanted to make(in my eyes) one of the biggest comfort foods, and that being Chicken Pot Pie.  Truth is, I have never made Chicken Pot Pie, and I can't believe it myself.  Growing up I didn't really like the stuff, so I sort of stayed away from it.  Why wouldn't I like it, is what I recently asked myself?? What is there NOT to like really?? That is why I made it.   I cannot NOT make this and try it when I haven't eaten it for years, and still think I don't like it, no way.  I made it.  I ate it.  Every bite.  Every lick of the spoon.  What does that say...I like Chicken Pot Pie.  Go figure.  :)  You will too.

This crust is amazingly flaky! LOVE!

Christmas Day

 

Merry Christmas!

I hope you all have a great Holiday with the ones you love. 

Enjoy the company, the food, the gift giving, and receiving.

Have a wonderful day,

Merry Christmas!

Classic Risotto

I have heard that Risotto is hard to cook.  I wouldn't really know that because I made it for the first time a few days ago, and it turned out great!  I believe this recipe I found is very simple, and basic, and it's hard for anything to go wrong.  My husband and I really enjoyed this Risotto.  It almost doesn't sound all that appetizing(to be honest) because it doesn't have much to it, but it turns out great, with a nice subtle flavor, and it's creamy, you can't pass that up!  I am very excited I tried this recipe because having heard so much that Risotto is hard, this at least got me in the door, and I am excited to try more exciting Risotto.  You should really try this recipe though! If you want a simple, quick, but delicious Risotto, definitely try this, or if it's your first time making it, like me! 

A little note that was with this recipe I wanted to share:

Here is the most classic of all Risottos!  It's called Risotto Alla Milanese and is authentically made with saffron and veal marrow.  This version is made with all the basic ingredients-no marrow or saffron.  Since you probably have the ingredients on-hand, stir up a batch anytime the mood strikes.



Coconut Macaroon Bites

Alright I may have a little bad news, maybe?? This recipe is the last sweet treat I have planned to make for the Holidays...there I said it.  My family and I have enjoyed way more treats then usual around the Holidays, and Christmas isn't even here yet!  This blogging has done it to me.  If I gain weight I'll blame it on the blogging, and being REQUIRED to post yummy fattening sweets around the Holidays.  At least I will have something to blame it on rather than just having a sweet tooth. ;)  But seriously, who could pass up a Coconut Macaroon??? And to make myself feel better I made them BITE SIZE! Which means fewer calories and fat because they are smaller, but then again makes you think you can eat more, am I right?! Anyways I'll stop talking about the inevitable weight gain from me baking too much in the kitchen, and I'll show share this amazing recipe!  OH and one more thing, Coconut Macaroons will forever hold a special place in my heart because my Husband and I enjoyed one of these every morning with our coffee in Maui last July sitting on our patio, looking out at the beautiful ocean.  We went for our 4 year anniversary, and loved every minute of it, and these cookies. :)

SO very good!

Gingersnap Oatmeal

Oatmeal is such a quick healthy breakfast with so many variations.  You can practically add anything to a bowl of oatmeal.  It can be sweet or savory because it has such a versatile light flavor.  I have yet to make a savory oatmeal, but maybe one day?  It is also good for you, and a healthy breakfast is the best way to start a morning.  I love oatmeal but I usually get on kicks where I eat it for awhile, then I don't want it for awhile, anyone else like that?  I made this Gingersnap Oatmeal for breakfast this morning, and fell in love, it is SO good, and really tastes pretty close to a gingersnap, just not as sweet.  All the same flavors though, and quite delicious!  If you like oatmeal and Gingersnap Cookies, try this!!

Mmm tasty!

Minty Bark Bites

I have never made Bark before, so this was new to me. I have always wanted to make it though, so I am glad I finally got around to it. I've looked at many different Bark recipes online, figured it would be easy, and just went for it.  I decided to switch it up a bit, and make it into individual size bites without having to break it into chunks.  It turned out great! One of these Bites is the perfect amount of chocolatey minty goodness.  They are bigger then one bite, and actually require a few, so the longer you get to enjoy them right? These are SO simple, require very little, and are perfect for ANY Holiday occasion. Please make these soon! :)

Minty Bark Bites

So tasty! I was sad when I saw that my chocolate had little while spots the next day...BOO, oh well they taste just the same.  I am thinking this is caused by air getting to it?? I'll have to look into that!

Caramel Filled Chocolate Cookies

I love a good chocolate cookie once in awhile, and chocolate and caramel go together like peanut butter and jelly, so I couldn't pass up a cookie recipe like that! After tasting these cookies I decided that this is my kind of perfect chocolate cookie with or without the caramel filling.  I just fell in love with these.  They have a perfect chocolate flavor that isn't too overpowering.  Don't get me wrong I love chocolate, but this is a simple perfectly sweet chocolate cookie.  You should try these, and not only around the Holidays! :) Perfect for anytime of the year.  I just gave myself permission. ;)

Keep reading to see how to make these cookies, you know you want to!

Creamy Chocolate Mint Fudge

Fudge is a must have during the Holidays around my house.  It is so easy(well sort of ;)) and takes very little time, unless you have to make two batches like me because my Hubby and I messed up the first one.  Oops!  Fudge is SO versatile, you can add so many toppings, to add extra flavor, and of course add some eye appeal :)  I have never made this fudge before, but it wont be my last, it was delicious!  A secret ingredient is marshmallow cream! Who could pass that up?!  It adds a nice chewy texture, the perfect amount.  This fudge would be perfect for a Holiday party, packaging it up for family, friends, or just make a batch for yourself, you need no excuse, go for it! :)

Creamy Chocolate Mint Fudge

I'm in love ;)

Sausage Balls

Good Morning friends! I hope you had a GREAT weekend!  I did! We finally picked out the family Christmas tree, I know, we are slackin' big time!  My family always picks it out together, and this year it took a little longer to all have the same schedule, but we got it!  I can't wait to help decorate it!  Anyone else out there finally get their tree this weekend?? I wish I could see all the lovely decorated trees out there.  It is so interesting how everyone decorates them, with all the fun ornaments.  I love the ornaments with sentimental value. :)  My parent's have many ornaments from when my brothers and I were little kids and made ornaments in school.  They have dates on them too, so fun!  I hope to carry on some sort of tradition with ornaments when I have kids that have grown and have their own tree.
Anyways... speaking of Christmas and getting together with family, my friend and I made these great Sausage Balls that would be perfect for an appetizer while decorating your Christmas tree.  These are SO easy to make, require very little ingredients, and taste awesome.  Whip these babies out for the Holidays and everyone will love them. Plus it's always fun to snack with our fingers right?? Enjoy!



Sausage Balls

Simple and delicious!

On My Radar #8

Good morning!  Here we are again for another On My Radar.  It seems like I do these posts frequently, which can only mean time flies...BOO!  I enjoy these posts though, and I hope you do too.  I hope you haven't had enough baking yet...I'm slowing down a bit, but I'm definitely not done, besides the fact that we have quite a few sweets in the fridge and on the counter waiting to be eaten.  They wont go to waste that's for sure, but hard to keep up on!  I'm still trying to post some normal dishes for those people who have willpower to stay away from baking batch after batch of cookies, not me, but I'm glad. ;)  Anyways...enjoy these tasty looking foods...and cookies, hopefully to be on the blog soon! 

Gingersnap Cookies

Have you ever been to or held a cookie exchange?  I held one last year, and it was SO much fun!  I have been too busy this year to carry on the new tradition, but there is always next year!  One of the lovely ladies that brought cookies last year shared these amazing Gingersnaps with us.  Gingersnaps are such an easy cookie to make, and are always a huge hit during the Holidays.  I clung to this recipe because these cookies stay soft for the most part! A total plus in my book! I love chewy cookies rather than hard crispy ones(besides Oreos-amazing cookies ;))  These cookies did not last long whatsoever in my house.  My Hubby adores Gingersnaps so he enjoyed helping me make these, and taste testing the little "runt" cookies that ended up a wee bit too small(oops;))  I have a new love for Molasses, it's thick, sweet, and wonderful.  Yum.  You should make these cookies, everyone will love them :)

Ginger Snap Cookies

I ate one of these right after I took the picture, it was a goner. :)

Spaghetti in White Clam Sauce

Clams anyone?? My Husband and I love clams, especially Clam Chowder, Mmm!  It reminds us of the Oregon Coast that we love so much.  One of these trips over there we want to go clamming, and crabbing.  I want to get all suited up in big rubber boots and rain gear and start digging in the sand.  It would be so great to bring freshly caught clams and crab home!  I have seen recipes for Spaghetti in White Clam Sauce many times and have wanted to try it for so long, finally I got around to making it.  My first thought while making it was if we were really going to like this(the smell of canned clams sort of creeped me out) BUT don't let that fool you because the end result was very tasty!  I am weird about fishy smells of all kinds though, and I know I just have to deal with it because I always end up loving the end result. No sniffing for me.  By the way I smell every thing, almost everything, everything food related for sure though, I'm weird like that. :)  Don't let my rambling about weird smells give you a bad idea about this dish, if you like clams and pasta, I'm pretty darn sure you will enjoy this! Give it a try, just don't sniff the clams in the can ;)

Spaghetti in White Clam Sauce

I can't wait for leftovers tomorrow!

Pretzel Kisses

We all love the baking season right? We love baking up all these goodies for family and friends, but we need some for our self right?? These Pretzel Hugs are the perfect snack WHILE you are baking for family and friends! :)  These are such an easy sweet treat, and have the perfect salty sweet taste.  These will definitely keep you from eating all snacking on the dough of whatever cookies you are making for the Holidays. ;) These are also perfect to make when  you have left over kisses.  The total reason I made them.  I was looking for a quick way to use up the chocolate kisses I had-not that I really needed one because they are easy to just pop in your mouth, but this is more fun, and everyone will love these simple sweet treats!   Once you make these you wont be able to keep them to yourself though because they are so easy and delicious, SO make them for everyone else too, after all it doesn't take long to whip these puppies out!

Pretzel Kisses

Love these!

Surprise Cookies

Hello Holiday baking!  I have so many ideas running through my head, it is really hard to keep everything straight.  I forget ideas, items at the grocery store, what time or day it is, forget to take pictures...very important pictures...so SURPRISE cookies these will be! These cookies have a little surprise in them, and the only way you will know what it is, is by the ingredient list, and my step by step pictures.  I'm an airhead sometimes, I'll admit it, especially when I am thinking about my next holiday baking treat!  Oops! Next time I make these-because there WILL be a next time, I'll post a picture for sure!  For now, enjoy these pictures, or make them yourself and enjoy the surprise in the center! :)



Surprise Cookies



These are really good! I shared them with my my Mom's co-workers, and they didn't last long at all!

Simple Breakfast Burritos

My Husband and I have always loved camping.  We used to practically live in the woods during the nice summer months.  We would even head out in the freezing cold before anyone else would even think about camping.  Yea, we are(or were hardcore like that.)  I think our whole camping excitement settled down A LOT since we lived in our RV for the last few years(for the most part) traveling for my Husband's work.  It was fun, but definitely had a "camping" feel to it.  When summer came around it seemed camping was not on our minds one bit.  Maybe next year though!  Since we decided to fore go camping this summer and have the luxury of a TOILET :) we have missed out on our famous camping food.  We are gourmet out in the woods(our camping is in the woods with nothing around) watch out, we can whip up some mean tacos for dinner, and breakfast burritos in the morning.  It is definitely not the healthiest by any means, but it's burly men food, and that is what they like out in the woods.  My Husband got a craving for the breakfast burritos we make out camping, so we whipped some up, and enjoyed every little bite!

Simple Breakfast Burritos

camping burritos made at home :)

On My Radar #7

Good Saturday morning lovely readers!  I hope you have a warm Saturday morning.  I am, I am drinking my coffee, heat is turned up, and I have a nice cozy blanket laying across my lap.  Love cozy mornings.  When I think about the Holidays and food, I think of warm casserole dishes, and all the wonderful flavors that accompany them.  Today's On My Radar will feature casserole dishes that will make you hungry...sorry, but that's my purpose right?!  Enjoy these pictures, and recipes!  Have an amazing Weekend!  I'll be back Monday! 

Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies(Blossoms)

I LOVE baking for the Holidays!  Every year I like to try new recipes, BUT I couldn't pass up this recipe I made last year.  These cookies are SERIOUSLY AMAZING.  They only require 5 ingredients, and take very little time.  My husband said "these are the best cookies on the planet." That is saying a lot :) and I'm so happy he said that because it gives me an excuse to make them all the time! We LOVE that there is NO flour in this recipe, it makes for more of a peanut putter flavor that is out of this world...yum.  I can't talk this recipe up enough, take my word for it please, these are so good, life changing.  We have decided whenever we want to make peanut butter cookies, we are going this route.  When I ate one of these cookies I was like Bob in the movie What about Bob when he was at the dinner table and LOVING his food-Mmmm, MMMM... mmmMMmm... MMmmMM(totally disrupting every one else eating)  Have you seen that movie?! Funny.  Make these please :)

Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies(Blossoms)

Oh my, I know it's early in the morning, but after seeing this picture I think I better go eat one of the THREE that are left! Be right back! ;)

Brown Rice Pudding

I had my very first(and only, until now) Rice Pudding a LONG time ago from a Thai restaurant.  I didn't know what to think about "rice pudding??" I'll taste just about anything, okay there are probably quite a few things I wont taste, but you know what I mean. :)  This rice pudding was amazing, and I fell in love.  I knew one day I would eat it again.  This Brown Rice Pudding I made is a quick, simple and tasty breakfast/brunch dish.  It's made with LEFT OVER rice!!! We all usually have left over rice after we make it right? I always do, but I always plan on it, remember...salt, and butter on rice??(my FAV!)  This rice pudding is tasty, and a must try if you want a semi quick way to use left over rice!

Brown Rice Pudding



Roasted Green Beans with Parmesan Cheese

Why would green beans be so hard for me to figure out how I wanted to prepare them?? I have no idea, but I had these green beans in my refrigerator for quite awhile, while I thought and thought about how to cook them.  FINALLY(just before they were going bad) I found a recipe!  I am SO glad I roasted these because they turned out so delicious!  This is truly my new favorite way to cook fresh green beans!  You definitely have to try these!!

Roasted Green Beans with Parmesan Cheese

Delish!

Homemade Pizza from Scratch

I am a total pizza lover at heart.  No joke.  I have a pizza craving at least once a week.  I don't allow myself to eat it that often, but I definitely give into the cravings here and there.  Why not?!  Everything in moderation is what I tell myself. :)  I have recently fallen in love with semi homemade pizzas at home made with the store bought Boboli...most of you know, and have tried these right?  They are SO simple, and such a quick meal.  I also LOVE the sauce that comes with them!  It has a sweetness to it that I love.  I am usually not a marinara lover, it always seems too intense flavored for me.  I like a lighter sauce.  I will choose a white garlic sauce for my pizza any day over marinara. 
I finally explored the world of true homemade pizza, and not to my surprise, I fell in love with it.  Go figure right?!  If I have a little more time on my hands when the "pizza craving" strikes, there is NO DOUBT I will make my own homemade pizza/dough.  Amazing.  If you haven't made a pizza totally from scratch, you are missing out, and I can't believe I went so long without making one.  Geez.  PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE make your own, you will be changed forever :)  I'll show you how I made it!


Homemade Pizza from Scratch

WOW! YUMMO!

Ham and Pickled Asparagus Wraps

It's finally time to share a family favorite appetizer!  Like I said before I am required to bring these wraps to every get together we have, especially Thanksgiving. We have yet to get tired of them, and I am sure we never will.  They are SO good.  Perfect combination.  If you make these, be sure to make plenty because they will go fast!  I have a secret ingredient that I tried a while ago.  I made half of a normal batch, and half with the secret ingredient, and the secret ingredient blew the standard out of the water! It disappeared quickly, and everyone decided it was the new way to go, so I have been making it that way ever since!  I'll show you how to make it, and let you in on the secret ingredient!

Ham and Pickled Asparagus Wraps

Please excuse these dark photos.  We made these wraps at 10pm! Don't let these dark photos skew your perception on how delicious these are!  :)

On My Radar #6(Thanksgiving leftover recipes)

Good morning fellow stuffed turkeys!  Whew.  Did you all fill your tummies with delicious food?? I hope you had a great day visiting with loved ones too! I definitely did!  We have sort of started a new tradition.  After dinner and dessert, we all sit around and play BINGO!  With prizes!  It's like an early Christmas...AWESOME...  We have SO much fun, and everyone really gets into it, and we all scream when someone yells BINGO, it's funny, and definitely a great time! 

I know the day after Thanksgiving you don't really want to think about food right?? Even though it's sort of required.  I held off posting a recipe yesterday, but I will be back here Monday with my Ham and Pickled Asparagus Wraps!  I made them for Thanksgiving, and everyone gets excited when they see them on the counter.  Stay tuned!

Today I will leave you with some "Thanksgiving leftover recipes" I found online, that sure look tasty!  I only took a little leftovers home, so unfortunately I wont be able to make any of these this year, but ideas for next year! :) Enjoy!

Thanksgiving Day

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

I hope you all have a great day with family and friends.  Enjoy their company, and great food!  Don't forget to take some leftovers home!  Be thankful :) 

I am very thankful for my amazing Husband, and caring family.  I couldn't ask for anything more.  They are my life.  I love you all!

I'll leave you with a few Thanksgiving cartoons I found online.

Enjoy!



Spaghetti Pie

My Husband loves Spaghetti.  I think he loves it more the day after, which I agree on that one.  Something about it just tastes better the next day.  All the flavors mend together overnight.  I always put the noodles and sauce together when I put it in the fridge, so the noodles soak up all that good flavor.  We will never get sick of my spaghetti, but I wanted to try something different, and it sure impressed us!  This Spaghetti Pie, is AMAZING.  It has a totally different flavor then my traditional spaghetti, but awesome.  The main reason it tastes different is because it has green bell pepper in it, and chili pepper seasoning.  It definitely has a "pepper" taste, which really works well in this dish.  We absolutely love it, and I will definitely add it to our rood rotation.  It was very simple, and I can't wait to try the leftovers too!!

Spaghetti Pie

I loved the texture of the baked spaghetti noodles

Homemade Dog Biscuits

It is SO true when you hear "A dog is man's best friend."  Well besides my Husband being my true best friend. :)  My dog Zoei, is my baby, and I mean BABY.  She is as much of a best friend as I could possibly have.  She is always there, no matter what, wagging her tail, and "smiling."  She really does smile.  She shows her teeth by lifting her lips, and pulling them back.  It is so stinkin cute.  I will try to catch her smiling on camera, but she is usually wiggling too much out of excitement.  She LOVES treats, and is rewarded with one when she goes outside and does her business.  I have been wanting to make homemade dog treats for quite awhile now, but haven't been able to find a dog bone cookie cutter until recently I found a set of two at a Petco Pet Supply Store for a dollar! Score!  I immediately went home and made these treats, and the end result??? A VERY happy Zoei!  She absolutely LOVES these treats!  If you have a fury four legged best friend, I am sure he/she would enjoy these treats as much as Zoei does! 

Homemade Dog Biscuits

I had to throw in a few of her favorite toys :)



On My Radar #5(Thanksgiving Recipes)

Here we are for another On My Radar!  With Thanksgiving right around the corner, we all are trying to figure out what recipes, and dishes we want to make for the special day.  I thought this would be a good time, to show off some Thanksgiving recipes that look divine,  from people all over the blog world.  Hopefully these recipes will give you ideas, and get your a little excited for next Thursday.  It's a great day to spend with family/friends.  What better way to spend time together that sitting around a bit table of food??? I'm not sure there is a better way. :) 

Pina Colada Yogurt Parfait

I seriously think I just found my new favorite breakfast.  This Pina Colada Yogurt Parfait is so good and would be perfect for breakfast, right?  Yogurt...(duh!)  Or of course it would be a perfect healthy dessert.  Anyway you look at it, it would be awesome, morning, noon, or night.  I'll take the "dessert" for breakfast. :)  My two favorite flavors/food of ALL TIME(no joke) are pineapple and coconut.  Oh geez, they make my mouth water.  If I have a choice between different flavors, and both of those flavors were choices, I would probably end up eating one of each, for sure, no doubt!  I LOVE them this----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------much!  I'll quit talking about my obsession of pineapple and coconut, and show you how to make this yummy parfait.  ;)

Pina Colada Yogurt Parfait

oh goodness...

Roasted Red Pepper and Garlic Aioli

Have you ever made a sauce that is so good, that instead of it being a dipping sauce(little bit on the end of whatever you are eating) it turns into the main dish...like instead of eating chicken with a side of roasted red pepper and garlic aioli, we had roasted red pepper and garlic aioli with a side of chicken...you're with me on this right?? Don't tell me you have never done that...a sauce so good it literally turns into the main meal on your plate.  That would just about sum up this Roasted Red Pepper and Garlic Aioli.  My husband and I discussed how we could practically eat this with a spoon. :)  I have been making this sauce for quite some time now, and everyone I have introduced it to, has loved it.  This sauce goes with just about every standard meat out there.  We LOVE it on chicken, and it goes great in the summer on barbecued meat.  I am even going to experiment with this in a pasta salad...MmmMmm, and other ideas.  If you like these ingredients, seriously you HAVE to try this! SO stinkin' good!  :)

Roasted Red Pepper and Garlic Aioli



Ginger Molasses Quinoa Cookies

Here I go again in the sweet department! Ah, I can feel my pants getting tighter, alright just joking.  I'm sure I would if I didn't share all these sweets with family and friends.  Maybe one day they will blame their pants getting tighter on me...I hope not. :)  If I continue to make desserts like these Ginger Molasses Quinoa Cookies, they shouldn't be able to blame it on me right??  I would like to think so, but truth is, these cookies still have butter and sugar in them, but also have more nutritious benefits.  Quinoa is a complete protein, which means it has all nine essential amino acids, along with magnesium, iron, copper, and phosphorus.  A very healthy little "grain", although it is a relative of spinach.  SO, these cookies are justified, and we should enjoy them!  These cookies end up crunchy for the most part, and the Quinoa also adds a little crunch which I like.  I hope you try these! Let me know what you think also!

Ginger Molasses Quinoa Cookies

I love how you can see the Quinoa!

Cheesy Cauliflower Pancakes

I had a head of cauliflower in my refrigerator, and I wondered what I was going to make with it.  I announced to my husband that cauliflower was going to be involved with dinner is some way.  He immediately thought of Cauliflower Pancakes, what a good idea.  I have made them once before, and he loved them.  They are the same concept as potato pancakes.  These are so simple, and a perfect side to any dinner.  If you like potato pancakes you should try these! 

Cheesy Cauliflower Pancakes

So cheesy and delicious!

On My Radar #4

Good morning readers!  We officially had our first snow fall last night!  I saw on the news last night, that the rain we were getting was to turn into snow over night.  So right when I woke up I peeked outside, and there it was! About an inch and still coming down.  I am one of those crazy people who do love the snow...especially the first snow fall, it gets me all excited, and giddy inside. 
Snow means the Holidays are nearing.
Snow means bundling up in our favorite sweaters, scarves, gloves, coats, and boots.  I definitely love dressing for winter. 
Snow means hot cocoa with marshmallows. 
Snow means sledding, building snowman, and snow angles with the kids.
But snow definitely has some down falls too...

Pumpkin Over Night Oats

Oatmeal for breakfast is super simple, and good for you.  I eat it quite frequently.  I have noticed on healthy food blogs, they tend to make a lot of "Over Night Oats," and I have always been interested in it.  I wasn't quite sure how I would like eating Oatmeal cold, and I have to admit it was a little WEIRD, BUT it was tasty, and a fun new way to eat it!  Also, it's ready right when you get up, so all you have to do is grab a spoon and dig in.  There are so many different variations as to what can be put in it, so experiment!  You just need some sort of liquid substance, and a lot of the bloggers use yogurt, plus some other milk product usually.  If you want to change it up a little you have to try this!  This would also be perfect for a hot summer morning! By the way I am running low on my last little bit of pumpkin. ;)

Pumpkin Over Night Oats

MmmmMmm!

Black Raspberry Oat Bars

So it seems I have recently fell in love with baking.  A good thing, and a bad thing.  The good part is all the delicious treats that can be made baking, and the bad thing is that a lot of those treats put a real hurting on the waist line.  Whew, it's a tough life, with a lot of tough choices. :)  I will continue to bake delicious treats though, no doubt about it, just may need to do more exercising to make up for it. :)  I definitely couldn't live without the yummy-not-so-good-for-you treats, so don't worry! I know I can make a more healthy version of some baked goods, but you know some recipes just shouldn't be messed with. I'm sure you know what I am talking about.  So relax, and enjoy these Black Raspberry Oat Bars with their one and a half sticks of butter in them. They are worth it, trust me. :)

Black Raspberry Oat Bars

Grandma's String Bean Casserole

Most of us have Grandma's that are, or were the best cooks around right? They put a special touch on everything they make, and it turns out great.  Even if we attempt the same recipe, it doesn't seem to turn out quite as good right? Just because it didn't have Grandma's touch. :)  I swear everything my Grandma made was delicious, and my whole family loved it.  My Mom has been making my Grandma's String Bean Casserole for a very long time now, and it is a huge hit every time.  My Dad requests it quite frequently.  I have made her dish twice now, and will continue to make it many more times because my Husband is in love with it.  It is SO simple and requires few ingredients.  This is a very special recipe to us, and at first my Husband didn't want me to share it with all of you.  He said "we should keep it a secret." :)  I know Grandma would be proud though, and be happy that we are sharing it.  Thank you for the recipe Grandma.  We miss you and your cooking. :)
Please let me know if any of you make this, and I hope your family loves it just as much as we do.

Grandma's String Bean Casserole

This warms my tummy just looking at it.

On My Radar #3

Happy Saturday to you all!  I hope you all are having a great day so far!  I can't wait to show you these recipes I found around the web, they sure look tasty! Check out their blogs/recipes to see more!  I will hopefully be making some or all of these shortly! This post, has really helped me figure out new recipes to try, and helps me plan ahead!  I hope it has given you some ideas as well.  Continue to have a great Saturday!  I'll be back Monday :)

Eggnog Bread Pudding with Craisins

Another Eggnog recipe already?! Yes sir-ee!  What better way to prepare for the Holidays, then to start baking up all this yummy goodness?! Hey, if you make it now, you have a chance to test out recipes before you make them for the whole family, right? :)  Plus most people love the Holidays, and why not make them last a little longer??  I have always had a fascination with bread pudding, and the funny thing is, I have NEVER eaten it.  Yeah, I know.  I had a little eggnog leftover in the refrigerator from my Eggnog French Toast with Eggnog Syrup, and some Hoagie Rolls from when I made this Hot Italian Hoagie.  I'm not one to let anything go bad, well at least I try not too, so this morning I whipped up this SIMPLE and OH SO TASTY Eggnog Bread Pudding with Craisins(dried cranberries).  I thought to myself, how hard can it be to make Bread Pudding?  I came up with a very easy version, that is really good, and I plan on making it for my whole family around the Holidays.  I am sure they will like it, and you will too if you try it!

Eggnog Bread Pudding with Craisins

Oh goodness this is good!

Cinnamon Sugar Pull Apart Bread

Is there anyone else out there that likes putting cinnamon and sugar on toast?  I love it!  I forget about it most of the time, but once I remember, it usually is a staple in my house for a good week or so.  It's such a good dessert, that is quick and easy, and requires very little that most people always have on hand.  Yum!  Cinnamon is also good for you, so that is a plus!  I have had my eye on this Cinnamon and Sugar Pull Apart Bread for many moons now, and I finally got around to making it, and HOLY MOLY, it could quite possibly be the best thing on earth!  I instantly fell in love with it!  It's so much fun to make, and seriously just looking at it makes me happy.  It's so pleasing to the eye, and undeniably pleasing to the stomach.  I shared some with my Mom, and she texted me later, and said "Yum! To heck with dinner!" :)  Dessert before dinner is how my Mom rolls, and if I had that in front of me too, I wouldn't pass it up.  This is definitely a keeper in my book!  I already can't wait to make it again!! Seriously...go try this! :)

Cinnamon Sugar Pull Apart Bread

Can you say it with me "Holy Moly!" :)

Chinese Orange Chicken Lightened Up

My husband and I enjoy Chinese food every once in a while.  We would probably eat it more often if it wasn't full of fat.  I have wanted to make my own Chinese food at home, and have once, but it didn't turn out tasting exactly how I wanted it to, or resemble the Chinese dish I was trying to re make, as much as I would have liked.  It was still good, but you definitely want a dish that tastes like the real deal.  This recipe tastes as close as ever in my book.  It is SO tasty, and if we ever want Chinese food, I will definitely stick to this recipe, plus try my hand at some other Chinese dishes.  This is way lower in fat, and is SO good.  If you like Chinese food, please make this at home, you will love it! 

Chinese Orange Chicken Lightened Up

So delicious!

Brownie Grave sites

Halloween is just a couple days away!  I can't wait to see all the cute little kids dressed up.  We are keeping it low key this Halloween, so I HAD to make something to get us in the spirit!  These Brownie Grave sites are SO CUTE, delicious, and fun to make! Everyone loves them!  Who doesn't love a good brownie with frosting on top, and other yummy candies?!  They have already been a hit at my house, and since we aren't having a Halloween party, I'll be taking these to share with family and friends.  These are easy to make, but there are some things to do differently if you decide to make them, which I will note as we go.  It will make your life a lot easier.  These are something to be proud of, well at least for me! :)  I have never made a fun little Halloween dessert like this, and I know now that it wont be my last.  It was too fun.  If you plan to whip these up within the next day or two, enjoy, and let me know how they turn out!

Brownie Grave sites

So cute right?!

Eggnog French Toast with Eggnog Syrup

So, I know I am a tad bit early to post any eggnog recipes, but seriously when that stuff hits the grocery store, I snatch some up!  I LOVE eggnog.  My Mom used to make it homemade, and I didn't care for it because of the raw eggs in it.  It just grossed me out.  I can't get enough of the store bought kind though.  Any other eggnog lovers out there besides me?  Maybe I should find a homemade recipe, if there are any that would suit me better?  I know it really isn't healthy at all, but it tastes so good!  I bought the "light" which has 50% less fat, and 30% less calories, which helps, and I can't tell a difference in taste.  A win win situation.  This is my first recipe using eggnog, and I have to say it turned out So stinkin good!  If you love eggnog I don't doubt you will love this!  I have seen recipes around the blog world for Eggnog French Toast, and have wanted to make some of my own, so I did, and the results....eggnog coma(in a good way) I can't get enough of it.  This Eggnog French Toast(made with whole wheat bread) has a nice subtle eggnog flavor, it is not over powering, which means pile on the Eggnog Syrup!  If you make your French Toast with French Bread, you may notice more of an eggnog flavor in the bread, it is up to you, but I definitely think you should try the Eggnog Syrup, it is TOTALLY worth it! :)

Cheese and Jalapeno Corn Bread Muffins

 There is a Barbecue joint in Washington that my Husband and I used to eat at that has amazing corn bread muffins.  There isn't anything special about them, but they are just soft, and a perfectly sweet crust on top.  Mmmm they are good.  I need to experiment with corn bread more because I am sure they would be pretty easy to duplicate.  The muffins I made last night were AMAZING but in their own way.  Cheesy and a little hint of jalapeno, just enough for flavor.  They are perfect, unless you are looking for a sweet corn bread.  My inspiration to make these came from A Cozy Kitchen's blog, and you can find her recipe here, On My Radar #1  She makes her corn bread in a cast iron skillet(which I don't have yet...BOO!)  which I'm sure would be awesome.  I decided to follow the recipe on the back of the Albers Corn Meal box, and add in cheese and a jalapeno.  Delish!  I ate two, one after another, before dinner, they were that good!  Try these, you will love them!

Cheese and Jalapeno Corn Bread Muffins



MmmMmmm!

Hot Italian Hoagie

Whenever my Husband orders a sandwich from a deli, it's main components usually are Italian inspired.  He always seems to gravitate towards pepperoni, and salami.  Maybe it's a "man thing?"  Today's lunch is another meal inspired by my Husband.  Once again I asked him what he wanted for lunch(these Fajita Turkey Melts were his idea last time) and he said "I'm thinking a sandwich, with Italian flavors, and an Italian dressing-not a red sauce, but a white sauce, or oil and vinegar.  I want red onion, and peperoncinis on it."  Wow huh?  I guess it was one of those days where he knew exactly what he wanted.  Those days are fun because we go back and forth with ideas as to what also sounds good.  This sandwich was REALLY good too!  It is packed full of flavor!  My husband was pretty darn proud. :)

Hot Italian Hoagie(my husband also chose the name)

Quick and Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal

This morning I was craving oatmeal, hot, and gooey oatmeal.  On cold mornings like this, my idea of breakfast is a hot bowl of oatmeal in a mug, curled up in a blanket with my coffee.  Mmmm.  I came up with an amazing mug of goodness this morning!  My husband came in the door from hunting all morning, and smelled the sweet pumpkin.  He was hungry, and made perfect timing.  I dished him up some of this, and he said in his own words..."MmmMmm!"  :) See I'm not the only one who utters that on a normal basis. :)  So introducing my new favorite Fall oatmeal!

Quick and Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal

 A little bowl of heaven.

On My Radar #2

Happy Saturday!  I hope you all enjoyed browsing through On My Radar #1.  Did it give any of you ideas of meals to make?? I have only made one thing from that post- Quick Pumpkin Pudding I made yesterday.  If you haven't checked that out you should, because it is amazing!  Stay tuned though because I definitely have more of those recipes in the works coming up soon!  I found some more goodies while searching the web, and I can't wait to share them with you! Enjoy, and try not to drool too much. :)

Quick Pumpkin Pudding

You know those nights(or during the day-it happens to me at all times of the day!) when you get that crazy craving for something sweet?  I know there are more of you out there like me! :)  If you haven't prepared something ahead of time, you want something quick to feed the sweet tooth beast inside of you!  This Quick Pumpkin Pudding is SO fast, and OH MY GOSH...SOOOO GOOD!  Did you get that?! ;)  I can't tell you enough how delicious this is!  My sweet tooth beast calmed down with one lick of the spoon, of course I didn't stop there though, heh. ;)  This pumpkin pudding will make you lick the bowl clean, literally.  I may or may not have done that.  Trust me on this, even though we haven't been friends for long, we will be best friends after you make this.  So what are you waiting for?! Feed the beast! :)

Quick Pumpkin Pudding

oh my goodness gracious!

Chicken Enchilada Spaghetti

Chicken Enchiladas are a huge family favorite in my house.  Now that I think about it, we don't eat them enough for how popular they are.  My husband has always had a love for flour tortillas, but me on the other hand have always had a love for pasta, go figure right.  Don't get me wrong though, I love enchiladas, but this new Chicken Enchilada Spaghetti was amazing, and a new take on the old classic, and call me crazy but I do love changing things up. This dish has great flavors, WITH pasta! YUM!! If you like enchiladas, you should try this!  It actually seemed easier to me, because you just add everything to the pan, rather then filling each tortilla.  Give it a try! :)

Chicken Enchilada Spaghetti



Crock Pot Barbecue Pulled Chicken

My husband is a huge barbecue fan. The kind of barbecuing that you slave over all day-slow cooking.  :)  You know, a long time ago I received an email, that totally and completely explains how much hard work a man(usually a man, right?) puts into barbecuing.  It really is eye opening. ;)  I actually deleted that email, but I found a very similar version online, and it will get you laughing(male and female) because it is in most cases SO TRUE!!  I found the information below on this site.

When a man offers to cook on the BBQ it does not mean an evening off for his partner, she will often end up working longer than him, it has been found.

A healthy eating campaign say that while men might stand at the BBQ to cook meat, they do very little else.

Wives and partners are normally left to; shop for the food, prepare salads and deserts, set the table, serve the food, clear up and even do the dishes.

A spokesperson for 'Eat in Colour' said: "We are all familiar with the summer ritual. At the first hint of sunshine the nation’s menfolk dash to the garden centre and return triumphant with a sack of charcoal briquettes. 

"Donning a humorous apron they set out to show off their culinary flair and give us the afternoon off. But things don’t really work out that way."

The group even found that most men need a woman to tell them when the meat is ready otherwise they would burn it.

How long is spent working when a man does a BBQ?

WOMEN

30 min  Woman does the shopping 


15 min  Woman prepares salads, vegetables and dessert

05 min  Woman sets table 


15 min  Woman serves up food, clears up and does the dishes


Total 1hr05

MEN

15 min  Man places meat on the grill and loiters with a beer

05 min  Man asks woman if she has enjoyed her afternoon off

Total 20min

I hope you all got a kick out of that like I did!  True huh??  I can honestly say that I did ALL the cooking on my Crock pot Barbecue Pulled Chicken, and it was such HARD work ;)  I slaved over it all day...alright, maybe my crock pot is the one who did all the hard work?! :)  Anyways it is not hard at all, and SO good! I shared it with my family, and everyone loved it!

Crock pot Barbecue Pulled Chicken

So delicious!  Perfectly sweet, tangy, and spicy!

Best Oatmeal Cookies

The other day when I purchased my CUTE new measuring spoons, I also bought a cookie scoop!!  I know I am probably the ONLY home cook that doesn't have one of these, and I really wish that I had because it is AMAZING!  I absolutely fell in love with it, and can't believe how I went years without it.  It makes like so much easier, and my least favorite part of making cookies, is scooping the dough up, and placing it on the cookie sheets.  I always used two spoons, and they never come out the same size.  I whipped those cookies out on the sheet so fast, it's not even funny.  I had to brag about it to my hubby, and now to you guys.  If you don't have one, which you probably all do, go get one! You will LOVE it!  I found mine at Bed Bath & Beyond for $9.99.  I will be a cooking making machine now, watch out! :)
I asked my husband what kind of cookies he wanted, and he usually says "I don't care, whatever kind you want to make" but this time he instantly said "oatmeal cookies."  I asked what he wanted in them, as in raisins, or nuts...fruit??  He said "nothing but oatmeal."  I thought hmmm, I've never maid plain oatmeal cookies, but I gave it a shot, and OH MAN these were seriously the best ones I have had!! The only oatmeal cookie recipe I will make from now on.  We like our oatmeal cookies, thin, and chewy, and these delivered both!!  You gotta try this recipe!!

These are SO stinkin good!! We had to try one right out of the oven, and it was a little crispy on the outside, and soft and chewy in the middle...Mmmm.  The even better part is that we LOVED them the day after!!  The crispy outer edge turned soft and chewy, so the whole cookie was a mouthful of goodness! I can't get over how good these are. Obviously. :)

On My Radar #1

Good afternoon! I love Saturdays! I hope you are all having a great day so far!  I have decided that every Saturday I will have a Post called "On My Radar" showcasing tasty foods found all over the Internet, that I have on my radar!  I will post tasty pictures, with websites that go along with them, and short explanations as to why I have it on my radar, in hopes to make the dish, and re-post for all of you!  I am VERY excited about this, because I can't tell you how long I spend sitting here searching all over the Internet for delicious recipes!  This will help me plan more meals ahead of time, and be a place that I can check back and go "OH I can make THAT today!"  I hope you will all enjoy this, and please let me know what you think! I would love to hear from you, and if you have any yummy meals that you would like to share with me, I'll check it out, and it MAY end up on my "On My Radar."  :) Enjoy everyone!