tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78469867975112817412024-03-06T02:57:21.321-05:00Love Being In My Southern KitchenUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger424125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-69277606044327226392013-02-11T10:59:00.001-05:002013-02-11T10:59:25.148-05:00Meal Plan Monday - Feb 11<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4M53Gm3L2czPKWu7TTHwwHsEl7644DZfGpPAfpNmRQfCsVRpe16iM9oEinKdy4eOsWFcIQXcWUq5Nui5JC3m1HH66KPhk6UQW9Xw8M7e6XR1iUGibcKAs163wRJo50zmtemnnVC5Ba0s/s1600/meal+plan+monday.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4M53Gm3L2czPKWu7TTHwwHsEl7644DZfGpPAfpNmRQfCsVRpe16iM9oEinKdy4eOsWFcIQXcWUq5Nui5JC3m1HH66KPhk6UQW9Xw8M7e6XR1iUGibcKAs163wRJo50zmtemnnVC5Ba0s/s1600/meal+plan+monday.bmp" uea="true" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">A nasty bout of bronchitis this week really messed with our meal plans and threw me off my game. Hopefully we are back on track this week as I am feeling a bit better. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Monday </strong>- <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2010/12/chicken-pot-pie.html">Chicken Pot Pie,</a> Rice Krispy Treats</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Tuesday</strong> - <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2011/08/all-american-frittata.html">All- American Fritatta</a>, Fruit</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Wednesday</strong> - <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2010/10/how-to-eat-at-home-on-go-week-2-baked.html">Crockpot Baked Potatoes</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Thursday</strong> - <a href="http://www.yourhomebasedmom.com/roasted-red-pepper-ravioli-and-giveaway/">Roasted Red Pepper Ravioli</a>, Italian Salad, <a href="http://www.mybakingaddiction.com/strawberry-cupcakes-recipe/">Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Friday</strong> - Subway - Nanny's treat</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Saturday</strong> - leftovers</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Sunday</strong> - <a href="http://www.whitelightsonwednesday.com/2012/11/chicken-cordon-bleu.html">Chicken Cordon Bleu</a>, <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2008/10/whiskey-glazed-carrots-major-league-yum/">Whiskey Carrots</a>, <a href="http://goodcheapeats.com/2010/11/simple-rice-pilaf/">Rice Pilaf</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">For more menu ideas and recipes visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2013/02/menu-plan-monday-feb-1113.html">I'm An Organized Junkie</a>. </span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-18038690975936223802013-02-02T12:15:00.002-05:002013-02-02T12:17:11.884-05:00A Dinner Party and A Pantry Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBcEo8dY8tL-Ohg7Fa27Mr0AYuMOkmoG2gJTWrzRKK4ejZJGQFx83suMP1qLQd-FF3gcNY7LYHYUniJGq-3wgXC9q8ZMkdnCDCMbM2yCUGYJ1fnmKVDF6C2hfL7SCkUrlbywBjL1sKk0/s1600/2013-pantry-challenge-copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBcEo8dY8tL-Ohg7Fa27Mr0AYuMOkmoG2gJTWrzRKK4ejZJGQFx83suMP1qLQd-FF3gcNY7LYHYUniJGq-3wgXC9q8ZMkdnCDCMbM2yCUGYJ1fnmKVDF6C2hfL7SCkUrlbywBjL1sKk0/s200/2013-pantry-challenge-copy.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Only a crazy person would host a dinner party at the end of a month long pantry challenge. Well, I guess I must be crazy. I hosted a dinner party on Friday night for 6 adults and 2 children and I only purchased one single item. I purchased a jar of marshmallow creme for marshmallow frosting for the cupcakes. I could have used a vanilla buttercream, but REALLY wanted to try the marshmallow frosting. While it wasn't a gourmet dinner, it was a wonderful meal. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">On the Menu - </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/09/italian-chicken-soup/">Italian Chicken Soup</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Grilled Cheese Sandwiches</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><a href="http://www.joyofbaking.com/cupcakes/ChocolateMarshmallowCupcakes.html">Chocolate Chocolate Cupcakes with Marshmallow Frosting</a></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Iced Sweet Tea</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I also spent a great deal of time on Friday cleaning out the pantry and several cabinets. We had 15, yes that's right 15 boxes of crackers in our pantry, mostly left from holiday parties. Some had just one or two sleeeves of crackers in them, so I did some consolidating and got that number down to 10 boxes. Ridiculous! I'll be making lots of dips and cheeseballs in the next few weeks to get rid of some of these before they go stale.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Linking to Good Cheap Eats</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-4229480444136776962013-02-02T12:15:00.000-05:002013-02-04T10:45:59.850-05:00Meal Plan Monday - Feb. 4I didn't write a meal plan last week for the first time in a REALLY long time. We just kind of winged it, which usually doesn't work that well for us, BUT as we were in the last week of our Pantry Challenge, it turned out OK. I have been in the mindset of use what we have now since Jan. 1st, so I just went to the refrigerator, freezer and pantry and used what we had on hand. While it wasn't the most exciting week of dinners we have ever had (lots of sandwiches), everyone was fed and no one complained. As our Pantry Challenge has now come to a close, we are looking forward to some great, new meals. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguZ89u836oP2SamShnshOeoVKF_ClH46qYtkhzxwhWaCb9bTinHBM4StCJ6z7KD9TjCvtoUvLRvjgH2J1ox0JxG9i7ju4AV-yCH_Dlmd1Jyy_DivNI4XZTnq9oYjc0zz7jkHG2MmseuQw/s1600/orgjunkie_banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguZ89u836oP2SamShnshOeoVKF_ClH46qYtkhzxwhWaCb9bTinHBM4StCJ6z7KD9TjCvtoUvLRvjgH2J1ox0JxG9i7ju4AV-yCH_Dlmd1Jyy_DivNI4XZTnq9oYjc0zz7jkHG2MmseuQw/s1600/orgjunkie_banner.jpg" /></a></div>
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<strong>Saturday</strong> -<a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Cajun-Roasted-Pork-Loin/Detail.aspx"> Cajun Roasted Pork Loin</a>, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy and <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/roasted-green-beans-133821">Roasted Green Beans</a><br />
<strong>Sunday</strong> - Shrimp with Remoulade, <a href="http://www.pauladeen.com/recipes/recipe_view/crab_cakes/">Crab Cakes</a>, <a href="http://www.biggest-loser-recipes.com/sweet-potato-fries.html">Sweet Potato Fries</a>, l/o Roasted Green Beans, Rice Krispy Treats, <a href="http://cafescrapper-scrapsoflife.blogspot.com/2011/02/gooseberry-patch-cookbook-giveaway-with_21.html">Soft Brown Sugar Cookies</a><br />
<strong>Monday</strong> - Too many things going on tonight -- picking up Zaxby's<br />
<strong>Tuesday</strong> - <a href="http://www.afarmgirlsdabbles.com/2011/03/24/lasagna-soup/">Lasagna Soup</a><br />
<strong>Wednesday</strong> - Leftovers - Lasagna Soup or Pork Tenderloin and Mashed Potatoes or Zaxbys Chicken Fingers<br />
<strong>Thursday</strong> - <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2011/08/all-american-frittata.html">All-American Fritatta</a> (with l/o italian sausage from Tuesday), Fruit Salad<br />
<strong>Friday</strong> - Subway Sandwiches - Nanny's treat<br />
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As you can see, I'm sticking true to the lessons of the pantry challenge -- using what we have. In the past I would have let 2 pieces of Italian Sausage languish away in the back of the refrigerator until it was too scary to eat. Instead, it will become a second meal by throwing it into a fritatta. Same for the pork. My family is not into leftovers so much, but if I can turn them into something different it a whole 'nother story.<br />
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For more menu ideas, visit<a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2013/02/menu-plan-monday-feb-413.html"> I'm An Organized Junkie</a>. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-22936441279028061032013-01-25T08:45:00.001-05:002013-01-26T09:47:43.295-05:00Pantry Meals Round UpEach January I participate in the <a href="http://goodcheapeats.com/2012/12/prepare-to-eat-down-the-pantry-2013-challenge/">Pantry Challenge</a> with <a href="http://lifeasmom.com/">Life As Mom's</a> Jessica at <a href="http://goodcheapeats.com/">Good Cheap Eats</a>. This allows us to spend less and use more of what we have. Pantry Meals are an important part of a successful Pantry Challege as well as instrumental in getting dinner on the table during the week all year long. Pantry meals are those meals you can just throw together based on what you have on hand, eliminating an extra trip to the grocery store. Each of these can be made either with what I have on hand or substitutions. Many of my pantry meals are one dish meals that either stand alone or with the addition of a quick salad or bowl of fruit make a complete meal. All week I've been sharing some recent pantry meal additions -- <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2013/01/veggie-quesadillas-pantry-meal.html">Veggie Quesadillas</a>, <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2013/01/fried-rice-pantry-meal.html">Fried Rice</a>, <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2013/01/cheesy-mexican-rice-pantry-meal.html">Cheesy Mexican Rice</a>, and <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2013/01/tomato-basil-pasta-with-italian-sausage.html">Tomato Basil Pasta with Italian Sausage</a>. <br />
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Here's a round up of our all time favorite pantry meals. I can throw each of these together and never get a complaint from a single member of my family. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiceB9x4V4Bbp9-tepcujXhyltZD48pfpIPYA5Z-JT_VegUxIyAgNoy9JZzvZpVr5Yl_ml95AkqPe5We4f5aHB1NwDR8JjvHThKUFZc_QuA6qhQLyiEwLpeZqXHsbfIKP8PIKh9fMgpxOU/s1600/DSC_0264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiceB9x4V4Bbp9-tepcujXhyltZD48pfpIPYA5Z-JT_VegUxIyAgNoy9JZzvZpVr5Yl_ml95AkqPe5We4f5aHB1NwDR8JjvHThKUFZc_QuA6qhQLyiEwLpeZqXHsbfIKP8PIKh9fMgpxOU/s320/DSC_0264.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2010/12/chicken-pot-pie.html">Chicken Pot Pie</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrchTQ_9JQmECwGd5oRNm_oPUa5JIA1sob1m3ZxGIF9X_Hi-GJa-FtxWRbeRsD82nZ1aXCFMvazImw-63DJ5W4vTAEmwqFGALS3qPYamP8kqSBKMVt7LQjPPpHkVQsassEIsNVhFXrsC8/s1600/DSC_0238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrchTQ_9JQmECwGd5oRNm_oPUa5JIA1sob1m3ZxGIF9X_Hi-GJa-FtxWRbeRsD82nZ1aXCFMvazImw-63DJ5W4vTAEmwqFGALS3qPYamP8kqSBKMVt7LQjPPpHkVQsassEIsNVhFXrsC8/s320/DSC_0238.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2011/10/pizza-pasta-casserole.html">Pizza Pasta Casserole</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuHd6DHlfsgNSxdsmVa4USEYYsVMXMjg6iy6vAJ36LCxAKtYD0HyPqFVqJutZIg5rWmNQw1Qu1Xe7Dzu9IGajs8dTgzp-tL4fLmbugtOZJfmBCwxgTgbUWmKAB4C4JxgEAlO8lXWBLUH8/s1600/DSC_0548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuHd6DHlfsgNSxdsmVa4USEYYsVMXMjg6iy6vAJ36LCxAKtYD0HyPqFVqJutZIg5rWmNQw1Qu1Xe7Dzu9IGajs8dTgzp-tL4fLmbugtOZJfmBCwxgTgbUWmKAB4C4JxgEAlO8lXWBLUH8/s320/DSC_0548.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2011/08/all-american-frittata.html">All-American Frittata</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGon4K-eBCxpOBXKUNljswxzMHt1grzJSqU76m7NqWqZjAOQWvQpt_WoO2CIA3ZaOC3udSwFS9iiucfhpszLa2t1vJPCy3QlXPjaAhgQsuOapdfUSLmdLcvBVLOv-12HfIlJ7f9BiIXBU/s1600/DSC_0342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGon4K-eBCxpOBXKUNljswxzMHt1grzJSqU76m7NqWqZjAOQWvQpt_WoO2CIA3ZaOC3udSwFS9iiucfhpszLa2t1vJPCy3QlXPjaAhgQsuOapdfUSLmdLcvBVLOv-12HfIlJ7f9BiIXBU/s320/DSC_0342.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/10/31-days-of-fall-day-19-chili-wtih.html">Chili</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwziCzLOj6HPSzgC-P2jStSIcT1Q-6nJchyKNskoEpds3k5MZTHpnwfMgrnSDeAskpkTlKTuy5OYtxvhPf0Q1we_dM1lynXd2n1-nkohyUTHJJubXHNz8tOC26i8alXuG0vz029yXi5HQ/s1600/DSC_1000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwziCzLOj6HPSzgC-P2jStSIcT1Q-6nJchyKNskoEpds3k5MZTHpnwfMgrnSDeAskpkTlKTuy5OYtxvhPf0Q1we_dM1lynXd2n1-nkohyUTHJJubXHNz8tOC26i8alXuG0vz029yXi5HQ/s320/DSC_1000.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2013/01/risotto.html">Risotto</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilk8UhXVmatnE67p_nOBsnhQxRsJHZlpW06dDY8IFjGJH3WWNtO-ZluAoWlE7nlD7BeIScUKyM6tE0jIEklH2Ai94FszD4_OZMgjCsIduF98_YMKowuIj9kORPOILuooD-RuRm4k4NoIU/s1600/DSC_0745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilk8UhXVmatnE67p_nOBsnhQxRsJHZlpW06dDY8IFjGJH3WWNtO-ZluAoWlE7nlD7BeIScUKyM6tE0jIEklH2Ai94FszD4_OZMgjCsIduF98_YMKowuIj9kORPOILuooD-RuRm4k4NoIU/s320/DSC_0745.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2011/03/its-almost-time-for-salads.html">Main Dish Salads</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnd1kluV704MTC2Kuoc63Gu5SLTW3vsiRWe_V7WON9bbQ55IMLW6tJYYmVkFKnvZkXFV8yiD1Pzjw5icDIKQFJhS-Swwh6gZdaCmdjdUSC0SC7wNTZAAPVwZPZsoxtnipKwuYG1O30sb4/s1600/DSC_0320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnd1kluV704MTC2Kuoc63Gu5SLTW3vsiRWe_V7WON9bbQ55IMLW6tJYYmVkFKnvZkXFV8yiD1Pzjw5icDIKQFJhS-Swwh6gZdaCmdjdUSC0SC7wNTZAAPVwZPZsoxtnipKwuYG1O30sb4/s320/DSC_0320.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2011/01/tomato-basil-and-cheese-baked-pasta.html">Tomato Basil Cheese Pasta</a></div>
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Linking to </div>
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<a href="http://tidymom.net/2013/dyson-dc35-cordless-vacuum/">Tidy Mom's I'm Lovin' It</a></div>
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<a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/2013/01/weekend-wrap-up-party-and-barn-owl-primitives-giveaway.html">Tatertots and Jello's Weekend Wrap Up</a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-53841870083887676482013-01-24T06:36:00.003-05:002013-01-24T09:48:10.030-05:00Tomato Basil Pasta with Italian Sausage - Pantry Meal<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Pasta dishes make great pantry meals. Most pasta dishes are very forgiving and substituting ingredients for what you have on hand is a simple fix. I have many, many pasta dishes my family likes, but one of our favorites is Tomato Basil Pasta with Italian Sausage. It uses so many staples I have on hand all the time -- canned tomatoes, pesto, pasta, parmesan cheese, and sausage. However, it is easily adaptable. Don't have italian sausage? Use breakfast sausage or ground beef or chicken or leave out the meat all together for a meatless option. I have used every type of pasta imaginable in this recipe. My one piece of advice is to stay away from spaghetti. The sauce is thick and just won't hold on thin spaghetti noodles. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmNAq8-M_4Mj12lPAojAzob2qY-Gl1I-6y8icij92zLOJfyHGYn29Xir8_9faRVv58JAI0rNReqG6ZUw2WBl_HTZpfEfmLQ0yfZndsISAZS01_zN3aqWP1bRpq5Sx39XfWJ5qkTYXTqIo/s1600/DSC_0197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmNAq8-M_4Mj12lPAojAzob2qY-Gl1I-6y8icij92zLOJfyHGYn29Xir8_9faRVv58JAI0rNReqG6ZUw2WBl_HTZpfEfmLQ0yfZndsISAZS01_zN3aqWP1bRpq5Sx39XfWJ5qkTYXTqIo/s320/DSC_0197.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><strong>Tomato Basil Pasta with Italian Sausage</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">2 T olive oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">4 cloves garlic, minced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes, drained</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">28 oz. pasta, cooked and drained</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">6 T pesto</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">6 T Parmesan cheese</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">1 lb Italian sausage, cooked and drained</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">salt, pepper, fresh basil to taste</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Saute garlic for 2 minutes. Add tomotoes and simmer for 10 minutes. While tomatoes are cooking, use a potato masher or back of a wooden spoon to break up the larger tomato pieces.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Season tomato sauce with salt and pepper, stir in pesto. Add Italian sausage and simmer 5 more minutes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Pour sauce over hot pasta, mix well. Top with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />Linked to <a href="http://mizhelenscountrycottage.blogspot.com/2013/01/full-plate-thursday-1-24-13.html">Miz Helen's Full Plate Thursday </a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-81805876921936773922013-01-23T09:00:00.001-05:002013-01-23T09:00:48.850-05:00Fried Rice - Pantry Meal<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Another great pantry meal I like to make is fried rice, using leftover meat and vegetables. This time used leftover pork. While I used the traditional peas and carrots in this batch, I've been known to throw in corn or chopped asparagus, even the last of a jar of pimentos went in once. This is a great way to give leftovers a new flavor profile and make it more appealing to my family. It is pretty quick too, especially if you use leftover rice instead of cooking and cooling it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><strong>Fried Rice</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 c long grain white rice, cooked according to package directions.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 T canola oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">2 eggs, scrambled</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 clove garlic, minced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 c frozen peas and carrots</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">3 green onions, sliced -- green and white parts</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">powdered ginger</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">soy sauce, low-sodium </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">leftover meat of your choice (chicken, ground beef, shrimp, pork)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Place hot cooked rice in a bowl. Toss in the frozen peas and carrots. Put in the freezer. Stir every few minutes until rice is cool and sticky. Your rice must be cold or it will turn to mush when you fry it. You can also use cold, leftover rice. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Heat oil in a wok or large skillet on high. Add green onions and garlic. Saute for about 2 minutes (it will smell REALLY good). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Remove rice from freezer, place in wok. Stir fry for a minute, add soy sauce to your taste. I use quite a bit, covering most of the rice. Add powdered ginger, about 1/4 t and salt to taste (if using full sodium soy sauce you won't need salt). Add in diced leftover meat and chopped scrambled eggs. Continue to cook until heated through. Taste and adjust seasonings and soy sauce if necessary. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-71475398035595197882013-01-22T11:00:00.001-05:002013-01-26T11:29:40.015-05:00Pantry Challege Week 3 Wrap Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">We did very well on our <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2013/01/2013-pantry-challenge.html">Pantry Challenge</a> this week. We did have an unscheduled dinner pick up from Wendy's this week because my tutoring session went LONG and I couldn't even begin to cook until after 8:00, so we opted for a quick drive thru meal on Thursday. However, I had only spent $12.00 on fresh veggies and dairy at the grocery store that week, so even with our $15.00 Wendy's trip we were still WAYYYY under our usual food expenditures. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I managed to do a bit of freezer cooking this week as well. We own a small restaurant and when there are extra items that will not be used before the expiration date and are not needed at the Salvation Army soup kitchen, I am the lucky recipient. My DH brought home 10 pounds of ground beef and 6 white onions. I quickly turned that into 5 meals of <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2010/12/how-to-eat-at-hom-on-go-week-10.html">homemade meatballs</a> and 12 half-cup portions of frozen chopped onions. I also made <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2010/05/saturday-morning-pancakes.html">pancakes</a> and <a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2012/02/baked-creamy-chicken-taquitos/">chicken taquitos</a>. I love that I was able to add to the freezer and still keep up with our pantry challenge. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">My refrigerator is getting bare. We've used up lots of condiments and made better use of leftovers this month. My freezer is showing signs of emptimess, which is good as it needs a good defrosting. You can see what we are eating from the freezer this week on my </span><a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2013/01/meal-plan-monday-january-21st.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">weekly menu post</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">. Every meal starts with an item or two from the freezer. I still need to do a thorough inspection of my pantry. The kids just kind of throw things in there and I'm not sure what exactly is in there. That will be this week's project and make next week's meal plan from what I find in there. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Hope everyone is doing well on their own challenge. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Linked to <a href="http://goodcheapeats.com/2013/01/pantry-challenge-link-up-3/">Good Cheap Eats</a>.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-56538283863939280502013-01-22T06:33:00.001-05:002013-02-02T13:25:24.255-05:00Veggie Quesadillas - Pantry Meal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Quesadillas are a quick weeknight meal we enjoy on a regular basis. I can have these on the table in under 30 minutes. One of our favorite recipes is this one for Vegetable Quesadillas. One of the great things about this recipe is you can change out the vegetables to suit your tastes or what you have on hand in the refrigerator. You can also used fresh, frozen or canned vegetables. This is a true versatile pantry meal.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Vegetable Quesadillas</strong></span></div>
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1 t olive oil</div>
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1 c fresh or frozen corn kernels</div>
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1/2 can black beans, rinsed and drained</div>
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1/2 c chopped zucchini</div>
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4 green onions, chopped</div>
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2 garlic cloves, minced</div>
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1 T chili powder</div>
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1/2 t ground cumin</div>
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1/4 t salt</div>
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8 (6 inch) tortillas ( I had HUGE ones is the refrigerator, so I made one large quesadilla and cut into wedges)</div>
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese</div>
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1 c sour cream</div>
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1/2 c salsa</div>
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Mix sour cream and salsa together. Refrigerate.</div>
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Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.</div>
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Heat a medium non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Swirl in olive oil, heat for 1 minute. Add in vegetables and spices. Cook, stirring occasionally, until veggies are tender, about 8 minutes. Remove from heat.</div>
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Place 4 tortillas on baking sheet. Top each with 1/4 of the vegetable mixture and 3 T cheese. Place remaining tortillas on top. </div>
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Lightly spray the top of each tortilla with non-stick spray. Bake until tortillas are golden and cheese is melted, about 8 minutes. Cut each quesadilla into 4 pieces. Serve with sour cream/salsa sauce.</div>
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These reheat well for lunch or leftovers the next day. </div>
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Linking up to <a href="http://www.lemonsforlulu.com/2013/01/31/one-creative-weekend-features-and-link-party-3/">One Creative Weekend.</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-82197556684780576652013-01-21T08:52:00.001-05:002013-01-22T10:57:16.891-05:00Cheesy Mexican Rice - Pantry Meal<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">As our </span><a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2013/01/2013-pantry-challenge.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">2013 Pantry Challenge</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> winds down, I'm highlighting some of our favorite pantry recipes. Some are old favorites and some are new ones we discovered this month while cleaning out the pantry and freezer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This is a great pantry meal. You can substitute any type of protein or leave it out all together. Don't have Rotel, use tomato sauce and green chiles or chopped jalapenos. Use any type of cheese you have on hand, cheddar, jack, pepper jack. This is a very forgiving recipe. It also makes a lot, so you will have leftovers for another meal or lunches during the week. We like to top it with salsa and sour cream. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><strong>Cheesy Mexican Rice</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 T vegetable oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 c long grain white rice</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 can (16oz) chicken broth</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1/2 - 1 c water</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 can Rotel</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1/2 onion, minced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">2 cloves garlic, minced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1/2 t salt </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1/2 t ground cumin</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1/4 t chili powder</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">small can corn, drained</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1/2 can black beans, rinsed and drained</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 pound ground beef, cooked and drained</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 1/2 c shredded colby jack cheese</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in rice; cook and stir until rice is lightly browned and gives off a toasted fragrance -- about 5 minutes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Stir in chicken broth, water, Rotel, onion, garlic, salt, cumin and chili powder. Bring to boil, reduce to low. Cover and simmer until rice is tender, about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add corn, beans and beef. Cook until heated through. Top with cheese, heat until cheese is melted. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Linking up to <a href="http://pocketchangegourmet.com/delicious-dishes-recipe-party-week-3/">Pocket Change Gourmet Delicious Dishes</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><a href="http://beautyandbedlam.com/decorating-recipes/">Beauty and Bedlam Tasty Tuesday</a></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-90216548990261668852013-01-21T08:20:00.000-05:002013-01-21T09:12:15.904-05:00Meal Plan Monday - January 21st<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Week 4 of the <a href="http://goodcheapeats.com/2012/12/prepare-to-eat-down-the-pantry-2013-challenge/">Pantry Challenge</a>. I'm working through the depths of my freezer this week. Each year in July I do a HUGE freezer cooking session before we all head back to school. By January, there are bits and pieces of that session that need to be eaten. This week my menu focuses on those items. I have several different marinated chicken breasts, a Mediterranean Whole Chicken, a Pizza Pasta Casserole, beer chili, mac and cheese and broccoli casserole. I also have buffalo chicken, plain shredded chicken and a bag of hashbrowns. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Sunday - </strong>Wings and Dip while watching the FALCONS!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Monday</strong> - Mediterranean Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Tuesday</strong> - Beer Chili, Mac and Cheese, Veggies and Ranch</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Wednesday</strong> - Sandwich and Salad Bar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Thursday</strong> - <a href="http://holycannolirecipes.blogspot.com/2011/05/buffalo-chicken-potato-casserole.html">Buffalo Chicken Casserole</a>, Salad, Fruit</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Friday</strong> - Mom, Dad, Patrick and Tommy for dinner ?????? Chocolate Chocolate Kiss Cupcakes with Chocolate Frosting</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Saturday</strong> - Supper Club - I'm taking a side dish--- still not sure what.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">For more menu ideas visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2013/01/menu-plan-monday-jan-2113-quinoa-greek-salad-recipe.html">I'm An Organized Junkie</a>. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-4975633966832182142013-01-15T09:23:00.000-05:002013-01-21T08:56:31.526-05:00Meal Planning and A Pantry Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2DKkhNyxuqF87QSJroxV-tVPZdmAWfkOtcYNH7EEKISKtCm-MKXXFJ6FManf-FuK_gfFtCNZgfi8zCd5he-rtCZ7FnxHueGOA3joYYMtac4tF0-okJJEMVMmR8jdLCQqYjQ1lwTRgIEc/s1600/Meal+Plan+Kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2DKkhNyxuqF87QSJroxV-tVPZdmAWfkOtcYNH7EEKISKtCm-MKXXFJ6FManf-FuK_gfFtCNZgfi8zCd5he-rtCZ7FnxHueGOA3joYYMtac4tF0-okJJEMVMmR8jdLCQqYjQ1lwTRgIEc/s1600/Meal+Plan+Kitchen.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Conducting a successful Pantry Challenge is impossible without meal planning. If you don't plan to use what you have, you will end up at the grocery store or the drive thru or at a restaurant, blowing your small January grocery budget. I try to meal plan all the time, but during a Pantry Challenge it is a necessity.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I start out by checking the refrigerator for things that need to be eaten quickly. Today I found bacon, proscuitto, lettuce, celery, green onion, pesto, smoked sausage, and bagels. I also checked the freezer and we have an abundance of brats, italian sausage and mac and cheese. In the pantry I had black eyed peas, plenty of canned tomatoes, hot dog buns and a 1/2 bag of potatoes. These items will make up the bones of my meal plan. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Sunday -</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><a href="http://www.deepsouthdish.com/2010/12/black-eyed-pea-jambalaya-deep-south.html">Black Eyed Pea Jambalaya</a>, Salad </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"> used - celery, green onion, smoked sausage, proscuitto, black eyed peas and lettuce</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Monday - Grilled Brats, Peas and Mashed Potatoes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> used - brats and potatoes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Tuesday - Tomato Basil Pasta with Italian Sausage, Salad (recipe coming this week)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"> used pesto, italian sausage, lettuce, canned tomatoes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Wednesday - Salad and Sandwich Bar </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"> used lettuce, bagels</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Thursday - <a href="http://www.anoregoncottage.com/2009/07/pantry-basics-teriyaki-sauce/">Teriyaki Chicken</a>, Rice, Salad, Fruit</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"> used the last of the lettuce</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Friday - Subway - Nanny's treat</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Saturday - meeting a college friend for dinner</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I didn't use the mac and cheese or bacon, so those will start off the list for next week's menu.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Next week I will be featuring a different pantry recipe each day. Stop by for recipes for </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Monday - Mexican Rice</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Tuesday - </span><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Veggie Quesadillas</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Wednesday - Tomato Basil Pasta with Italian Sausage</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Thursday - Fried Rice</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Friday - Links to many pantry recipes</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Linking up to <a href="http://goodcheapeats.com/2013/01/pantry-challenge-link-up-2/">Good Cheap Eats' Pantry Challenge</a>. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-36740021095072687782013-01-14T10:57:00.000-05:002013-01-21T08:56:47.813-05:00Meal Plan Monday - January 13<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Still going strong with our Pantry Challenge. There are many benefits of doing a pantry challenge, but this week, the biggest was not spending money at the grocery store. I had some extra cash to do a little clothes shopping from the sales racks. I have some great new spring outfits (like a $278 Ellen Tracy dress for $12.00!) to begin building my spring wardrobe. </span><br />
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Next will I will be featuring a different pantry recipe each day. Stop by and check them out. <br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Sunday - <a href="http://www.deepsouthdish.com/2010/12/black-eyed-pea-jambalaya-deep-south.html">Black-Eyed Pea Jambalaya</a></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Monday - Brats, Mashed Potatoes, Peas</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Tuesday - Tomato Basil Pasta with Italian Sausage, Salad</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Wednesday - Sandwich and Salad Bar </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Thursday - <a href="http://www.anoregoncottage.com/2009/07/pantry-basics-teriyaki-sauce/">Teriyaki Chicken</a>, Rice, Salad, Fruit</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Friday - Subway - Nanny's Treat</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Saturday - Out with Friends</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">For more menu ideas, visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2013/01/menu-plan-monday-jan-1413.html">I'm An Organized Junkie</a>. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-74800283956739862532013-01-08T06:35:00.001-05:002013-01-08T06:35:42.801-05:00Pantry Challenge Week 1 <br />
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The first week of the 2013 Pantry Challenge did not go as well as expected. My pantry basics needed a replenish after the holidays. After Christmas Eve Dinner for 15, Christmas Day Dinner for 9, New Years Eve party for 35, New Years Day Dinner for 11, 4 days of houseguests and 5 teenage boys for a sleepover I was out of some essentials -- flour, oil, confectioners sugar, mustard, salt, eggs, chips and salsa (the boys ate 3 bags of chips and 2 jars of salsa as well as 24 cupcakes!) So a quick trip to the grocery store for those items as well as fresh fruit (my kids are just devouing those adorable and delicious clementimes), salad fixins and milk.<br />
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We ate very well this first week off of leftovers from the holidays. For lunches we finished up Nanny's pimento cheese, chili and hot dogs, leftover enchiladas and <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/09/nachos-2-ways.html">nachos</a>. <br />
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Dinners were delicious. I made Fried Rice and<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/09/italian-chicken-soup/"> Pioneeer Woman's Italian Chicken Soup</a>, subbing in leftover pork loin from New Years in both (posts coming soon). We enjoyed dinner with friends on Saturday night, I took creamed corn (from the freezer), Cream Cheese and Pepper Jelly Appetizer (from the pantry) and <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/03/sugar-cookie-bars.html">Sugar Cookie Bars</a>. <br />
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To read more about the Pantry Challenge visit <a href="http://goodcheapeats.com/2013/01/pantry-challenge-link-up-1/">Good Cheap Eats</a>. <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-75539079975586021422013-01-07T06:26:00.001-05:002013-01-07T09:44:08.854-05:00Meal Plan Monday - January 7th<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This is the second week of the Pantry Challenge. Last week was all about using up leftovers from the holidays, this week I'm focusing on things getting close to their expiration date, like that 1/2 gallon of milk that expires on Tuesday, potatoes left from New Years, chopped ham and a Spinach Rice Bake that's been in the freezer awhile. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Sunday</strong> - Ham</span><a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2010/11/how-to-eat-at-home-week-6-delicious-ham.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> and Potato Soup</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">, Cupcakes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Monday</strong> -<strong>National Championship Game</strong> - Football Food!</span><br />
<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2010/12/how-to-eat-at-home-on-go-week-8.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Football Dip</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">, Queso and Chips, Fruit and Cheese Tray, Pimento Cheese and Crackers</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Tuesday</strong> -</span><a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2011/07/mozzarella-stuffed-sausage-balls-or-boo.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">,</span><a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/kittencals-spinach-parmesan-rice-bake-96886"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> Spinach Parmesan Rice Bake</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">, Salad</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Wednesday</strong> - Leftovers </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Thursday</strong> - Taquitos, </span><a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/03/layered-salad.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Layered Salad</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Friday</strong> - Subway - Nanny's Treat</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Saturday</strong> - </span><a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/03/sugar-cookie-bars.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Black Eyed Pea Jambalaya</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">, Salad, </span><a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/03/sugar-cookie-bars.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Sugar Cookie Bars</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">For more menu ideas, visit <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2013/01/menu-plan-monday-january-713.html">I'm An Organized Junkie</a>. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-19120144262186740702013-01-06T09:09:00.001-05:002013-01-06T09:09:20.436-05:002012 Kitchen Goals Wrap Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I got ahead of myself and posted my <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2013/01/2013-kitchen-goals.html">2013 Kitchen Goals</a> before my 2012 Wrap Up, oh well....<br />
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For the past 3 years (<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2009/12/kitchen-goals-for-2010.html">2010</a>, <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2010/12/2011-kitchen-goals.html">2011</a>, <a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/01/2012-kitchen-goals.html">2012</a>) I have set 12 goals for the kitchen, one for each month of the year. This is so much easier than setting a bunch of resolutions and trying to accomplish them all at once. Here's a recap of my successes and failures for the 2012.<br />
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<strong>Goal 1 - Pantry Challenge - SUCCESS</strong><br />
Did it! Third year in a row.<br />
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<strong>Goal 2 - Clean out utensil drawer - SUCCESS</strong><br />
Did it! And it is still clean and functional <br />
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<strong>Goal 3 - Limit dining out/take out to 2 - 3 times per month - SUCCESS</strong><br />
We have done really well with this one, so much so it is almonst non-existant. Now we treat eating out/take out/or delivery as a treat because we want to, not because we have to.<br />
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<strong>Goal 4 - More veggies in our menu plan- SUCCESS</strong><br />
Much, much better this year, especially with the addition of salads for dinner at least once a week. I'm still working on the variety of veggies we eat, but our overall intake is much higher. We have also added a greater variety of fruits to our meals <br />
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<strong>Goal 5 - Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes a Day- FAIL</strong><br />
This was the 3rd year this has been on my goal list. I never got around to it, especially with an emphasis on eating better and losing a few pounds, this just didn't seem like a good fit for our family. I'm dropping this from my kitchen plans<br />
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<strong>Goal 6 - Better utilization of garden produce -- less waste - FAIL</strong><br />
Our house flooded at the end of May and the entire summer was spent trying to get it repaired and livable again. The garden fell by the wayside, there just weren't enough hours in the day to deal with contrators and a garden.<br />
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<strong>Goal 7 - Dehydrate and freeze more - HALF SUCCESS</strong><br />
Since the garden never really got off the ground, there wasn't much to freeze, but I did use the dehydrator to make dried apples several times this fall. They have become a favorite snack and a great addition to homemade granola. <br />
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<strong>Goal 8 - Update Family Favorites and Freezer Cookboooks - HALF SUCCESS</strong><br />
Freezer Cookbook is up to date and the Family Favorite Cookbook is almost finished. I'm just waiting for some pocket sheet protectors to come in and I can add the tabs and cover pages. It should be a very valuable resource once it is complete.<br />
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<strong>Goal 9 - Learn to make and freeze cream corn - SUCCESS</strong><br />
My very good friend and I, following my Granny's directions, prepared and froze and entire bushel of corn. We had 13 quarts of corn between the two of us. We have certainly decided to invest in a <a href="https://www.pamperedchef.com/ordering/prod_details.tpc?prodId=26434&words=1114">Pampered Chef Corn Cutter</a> for next year! <br />
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<strong>Goal 10 - Create a list of family favorite salads - SUCCESS</strong><br />
We have added several main dish salads to our menu rotation this year, including Chicken Caesar Salad, Chef Salad, Layered Salad and Revised Southern Cobb Salad<br />
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<strong>Goal 11 - Eat at the table and not in front of the TV - FAIL</strong><br />
This is just not our style. We get home late from work, practices, tutoring and we just want to relax and eat. I don't think we will ever be a eat at the table all the time family <br />
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<strong>Goal 12 - Let my kids cook more - SUCCESS</strong><br />
We did this alot this year. Bubba is fully functional at making himself breakfast in the morning and he is also very good about making sandwiches and cereal when he wants a snack - I know that is not really cooking, but he is much more independent in the kitchen and not so dependant on me. Next step for him is more "real" cooking. Boo Boo is my constant sous chef and kitchen helper. She helps me make everything. She is great at putting things in the crockpot when she gets home from school so it is not over cooked when we all sit down to eat around 8:00. She will be doing more independent cooking next.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-50294676358005068952013-01-04T11:38:00.003-05:002013-01-10T11:21:00.296-05:00Risotto<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We love risotto around here. It's such a simple dish and it can be tailored to meet your family's tastes, the seasons and whatever might be lurking in your refrigerator. Most people steer clear of making risotto because they think it it too hard, time consuming, or high in calories. It truly is neither. I can have risotto on the table in about 40 minutes, my kind of weeknight meal. Serve it with leftover chicken, pork or beef to make leftovers not seem like the same meal again. This version is a light risotto, with only 243 calories and 4.7 g of fat in a 1/2 cup serving.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Basic Risotto</strong></span><br />
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1 t butter<br />
1 t oil oil<br />
1 medium onion, chopped<br />
6 mushrooms, chopeed<br />
1 1/2 c Arborio rice<br />
1/2 c frozen corn kernels (or other frozen vegetable of your choice)<br />
1/2 c white wine<br />
7 - 8 cups reduced fat, low sodium chicken broth, heated<br />
1/2 t dried thyme (or other spice of your choice)<br />
1/2 t salt<br />
1/2 t pepper<br />
1/4 t rubbed sage<br />
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Melt butter and olive oil in a 2 qt saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onions and mushrooms, saute for 2 - 3 minutes. Add rice, saute 1 minute. Stir in corn and wine; reduce heat to medium, and simmer stirring constantly until wine is reduced by half. <br />
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Add 1/2 c hot broth, and cook, stirring constantly until liquid is absorbed. Repeat procedure with remaining hot broth, 1/2 cup at a time, until rice is tender. (Total cooking time is about 35 minutes.) <br />
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Stir in thyme and next 3 ingredients, stirring until blended. Serve immediately. 8 1/2 c servings.<br />
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Linking up to <br />
<a href="http://mizhelenscountrycottage.blogspot.com/2013/01/full-plate-thursday-105-1-10-13.html">Miz Helen's Country Cottage</a><br />
<a href="http://lifeasmom.com/2013/01/banana-cupcakes-with-chocolate-cream-cheese-frosting-urs-pantry-staples.html">Life As Mom</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-15087880321177277952013-01-03T10:38:00.001-05:002013-01-09T10:50:40.204-05:002013 Kitchen Goals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Year 4 of setting 12 kitchen goals -- one for every month. I have done some really cool things over the past 3 years. I learned to make my own hummus and freeze creamed corn just like my Granny. I have decreased our comsumption of processed foods. I have cleaned out drawers, pantrys and cabinets. I added to and increased my garden output and preservation. I utilized my extensive Southern Living Cookbook collection and created freezer and family favorite cookbooks. Whew, I get tired of just thinking about it! <br />
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Here are my goals for this year, some are new, some are carryovers from prevous years and some are continutations of goals that have worked in the past. <br />
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<strong>Goal 1</strong> - <a href="http://goodcheapeats.com/2012/12/prepare-to-eat-down-the-pantry-2013-challenge/">Pantry Challenge</a> (4th year)<br />
<strong>Goal 2</strong> - Eat Sunday dinner at the kitchen table.<br />
<strong>Goal 3</strong> - Add at least one healthy recipe/month to our Family Favorites Cookbook<br />
<strong>Goal 4</strong> - Clean out ALL kitchen cabinets -- downsize<br />
<strong>Goal 5</strong> - Better use of leftovers - less waste<br />
<strong>Goal 6</strong> - Cook ahead on Sunday for the rest of the week<br />
<strong>Goal 7</strong> - Use kitchen appliances - if I don't use it, get rid of it<br />
<strong>Goal 8</strong> - Kids cook more<br />
<strong>Goal 9</strong> - Redesign some of my kitchen cabinets for better space utilization<br />
<strong>Goal 10</strong> - Learn to make 3 more items I would usually buy at the grocery store<br />
<strong>Goal 11</strong> - Plan better lunches to take to work<br />
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I only have 11 goals this year, but some are pretty intense, like goal 4 -- I have 34 kitchen cabinets and 9 drawers! However, each goal is designed to make my time in the kitchen more efficient and better for my family. <br />
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Linking up to <br />
Tatertots and Jello<br />
<a href="http://beautyandbedlam.com/some-of-my-favorite-2012-recipes-food-ideas-tasty-tuesday/#more-26786">Balancing Beauty and Bedlam</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-64189357854269307772013-01-02T14:09:00.002-05:002013-01-03T10:39:07.469-05:00Meal Plan Monday - Jan 1st<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSKJCuRmZOrpHnODrZPUpQZ5X77m_KZfVWYpdJ13z1Tebnbsbb2LNdBakQarZjXDe_rPaarI3Fc8GDPEHlgcdLxxWD1DvsbCkAubA3WEFpWIaymIHLu_4cA7cak5tWxwvsCVXi1_CgcBE/s1600/orgjunkie_banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSKJCuRmZOrpHnODrZPUpQZ5X77m_KZfVWYpdJ13z1Tebnbsbb2LNdBakQarZjXDe_rPaarI3Fc8GDPEHlgcdLxxWD1DvsbCkAubA3WEFpWIaymIHLu_4cA7cak5tWxwvsCVXi1_CgcBE/s1600/orgjunkie_banner.jpg" /></a></div>
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I have cooked and cooked and cooked this holiday season. In addition to my Christmas baking I hosted Christmas Eve dinner for 15, Christmas Day dinner for 8, a New Year's Eve Party for 35 and New Year's Day Dinner for 11. Whew... I'm tired. The rest of the week we are cleaning out the refrigerator and eating up all the leftovers. Next week we will be eating from the pantry. <br />
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<strong>Saturday</strong> - Chili, Hot Dogs, Pimento Cheese Sandwiches<br />
<strong>Sunday</strong> - Beef and Chicken Enchiladas, Yellow Rice, Chips and Salsa<br />
<strong>Monday</strong> - New Year's Party - lots and lots of appetizers<br />
<strong>Tuesday</strong> - New Year's Day Dinner - Rosemary Pork Loin, Scalloped Potatoes, Collard Greens, Hoppin' John, Cornbread and Cake with Raspberry Filling<br />
<strong>Wednesday</strong> - Leftover Chili, Hot Dogs, Nachos, Enchiladas<br />
<strong>Thursday</strong> - Pork Loin, Scalloped Potatoes, Asparagus<br />
<strong>Friday</strong> - Finish off leftovers or Breakfast for Dinner<br />
<strong>Saturday</strong> - Dinner with friends<br />
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Linking up to <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2012/12/menu-plan-monday-dec-3112-happy-new-year.html">I'm An Organized Junkie</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-90129588465874853272013-01-02T12:01:00.000-05:002013-01-02T12:46:18.015-05:002013 Pantry Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBcEo8dY8tL-Ohg7Fa27Mr0AYuMOkmoG2gJTWrzRKK4ejZJGQFx83suMP1qLQd-FF3gcNY7LYHYUniJGq-3wgXC9q8ZMkdnCDCMbM2yCUGYJ1fnmKVDF6C2hfL7SCkUrlbywBjL1sKk0/s1600/2013-pantry-challenge-copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBcEo8dY8tL-Ohg7Fa27Mr0AYuMOkmoG2gJTWrzRKK4ejZJGQFx83suMP1qLQd-FF3gcNY7LYHYUniJGq-3wgXC9q8ZMkdnCDCMbM2yCUGYJ1fnmKVDF6C2hfL7SCkUrlbywBjL1sKk0/s1600/2013-pantry-challenge-copy.jpg" /></a></div>
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Since 2010 I have participated in the Pantry Challenge hosted by Jessica at<a href="http://goodcheapeats.com/"> Good Cheap Eats</a>. It is a fantastic way to eat what we have on hand, use up food before expiration dates hit, get creative in the kitchen and save money. There are several ways to approach the challenge - Jessica discusses them <a href="http://goodcheapeats.com/2012/12/prepare-to-eat-down-the-pantry-2013-challenge/">here</a>. This is how we do it at our house.<br />
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1. Plan from the pantry/freezer/refrigerator first.<br />
2. Shop only for fresh food items -- salad fixins, fruit and dairy products<br />
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That's it, so simple. <br />
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I'll post weekly updates as well as any great recipes or meals we discover as we eat through our pantry and freezer this month.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-48075329183192074352013-01-02T11:06:00.000-05:002013-01-06T10:26:44.670-05:00Top 10 Posts of 2012To wrap up 2012, here are my top 10 posts from the year. Enjoy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigi69e6k5fWBs7DBT6s6g6GwDt6g6Dew-araKQCWMw3mGfh117a_G0QGmhSxsz6YirtFkF2qodySm0xOC7ALmfdIRCHcbNExGbQ-EbmjnNccl3VmxiPu1BcXui79mg_XsPGnxfZU5LsVk/s1600/DSC_0306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigi69e6k5fWBs7DBT6s6g6GwDt6g6Dew-araKQCWMw3mGfh117a_G0QGmhSxsz6YirtFkF2qodySm0xOC7ALmfdIRCHcbNExGbQ-EbmjnNccl3VmxiPu1BcXui79mg_XsPGnxfZU5LsVk/s320/DSC_0306.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/04/lemonade-cupcakes-with-raspberry.html">Lemonade Cupcakes with Raspberry Buttercream Frosting</a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/01/freezer-cooking-from-pantry-and-freezer.html">Freezer Cooking from the Pantry</a><br />
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/01/freezer-cooking-from-pantry-and-freezer.html">Caramel Puff Corn - AKA Crack Corn</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-CTcX0dItZpJFdx0ZeRns9aR8z3Q2XEGSYa0LFeHo3YkwRxhbnJubEFB2GIh1SHXnxCM6EbLIT6gK3np2IpULBNqhf7Im4NbkpNcvE46RUTP_2os0Ufs3ztcaPfTXR4l3QeFISqfGYPs/s1600/DSC_0305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-CTcX0dItZpJFdx0ZeRns9aR8z3Q2XEGSYa0LFeHo3YkwRxhbnJubEFB2GIh1SHXnxCM6EbLIT6gK3np2IpULBNqhf7Im4NbkpNcvE46RUTP_2os0Ufs3ztcaPfTXR4l3QeFISqfGYPs/s320/DSC_0305.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/01/french-dip-sandwiches.html">French Dip Sandwiches</a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/01/2012-kitchen-goals.html">2012 Kitchen Goals</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh8XgPkp_ucBCPirxgDmvxW3IK0ilAsbz49mQZzL4WNUPCeceRo4L21Q4fRlOvtDuroSVQpPRkgXAErBecoHPM7GFJsZyU3c6rOpWpO5Kpn0qhT8m5r_fRlLCEjnqf0N1Iy1L1MPNwMhw/s1600/DSC_1057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh8XgPkp_ucBCPirxgDmvxW3IK0ilAsbz49mQZzL4WNUPCeceRo4L21Q4fRlOvtDuroSVQpPRkgXAErBecoHPM7GFJsZyU3c6rOpWpO5Kpn0qhT8m5r_fRlLCEjnqf0N1Iy1L1MPNwMhw/s320/DSC_1057.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/01/chicken-corn-and-potato-chowder.html">Chicken Corn and Potato Chowder</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht4ge_HQ4gL3mbnsP85SOdT1Vif_UxAry8rluS82HUdkr9_mdlSYwuLIlPby1k7JI_AbCvPfF3r_3xLtOupJI-Whi1K8U-LbiG0nUNAQ0gDN0kNtqoVZbxY7OhNvaQkWPde_z7sbPtv5k/s1600/DSC_1010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht4ge_HQ4gL3mbnsP85SOdT1Vif_UxAry8rluS82HUdkr9_mdlSYwuLIlPby1k7JI_AbCvPfF3r_3xLtOupJI-Whi1K8U-LbiG0nUNAQ0gDN0kNtqoVZbxY7OhNvaQkWPde_z7sbPtv5k/s320/DSC_1010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/01/cheddar-cheese-ring-with-pepper-jelly.html">Cheddar Cheese Ring with Pepper Jelly</a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/09/31-days-of-fall-day-1-apple-picking.html">Apple Picking</a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/02/fleece-poncho.html">Fleece Poncho</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk9SMHNhtj4K_11sKebqUJwYzjyqi0oHFoUn5ooQFeWrQ6u1Jj79QJ6i4xohVBsyIaWhfidH5Mym3NnGWuSZyQKI1Sq9QYKhE-h7fnpILqAig3RDDWj6_aJeZBgGk2d_OFSHhWkrTkD_U/s1600/DSC_0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk9SMHNhtj4K_11sKebqUJwYzjyqi0oHFoUn5ooQFeWrQ6u1Jj79QJ6i4xohVBsyIaWhfidH5Mym3NnGWuSZyQKI1Sq9QYKhE-h7fnpILqAig3RDDWj6_aJeZBgGk2d_OFSHhWkrTkD_U/s320/DSC_0044.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2012/03/sugar-cookie-bars.html">Sugar Cookie Bars</a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-44825073022430983662012-12-18T06:27:00.000-05:002013-01-21T09:09:54.436-05:007 Days of Holiday Treats - Cut Out Sugar Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSqEgyRRrkhkZYQ7zySq86QHN8Wxrvxhv8Ds_wgb0eYBTpY4z8-0k6jfIpkG9AdbvTrXeJTo_STATC6cYBMVm9u73PAbjEeR4Ub9g_-toCsWLJs4ULC270_kNzwzDAk9lT7E9M7Otf9A/s1600/DSC_0787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSqEgyRRrkhkZYQ7zySq86QHN8Wxrvxhv8Ds_wgb0eYBTpY4z8-0k6jfIpkG9AdbvTrXeJTo_STATC6cYBMVm9u73PAbjEeR4Ub9g_-toCsWLJs4ULC270_kNzwzDAk9lT7E9M7Otf9A/s320/DSC_0787.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">When we were growing up, one of my mom's friends bought her a cookbook and on the inside cover dedicated it to the mistreated kids in our family who never got cut out sugar cookies. After that, decorated sugar cookies became a Santa treat tradition in our house. Sometimes we made them from scratch, sometimes from a mix, but they were always left out for Santa on Christmas Eve.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">My sister and I have continued the tradition with our kids at my mom's house. On years we are all home for Thanksgiving we make them then, and when we are home for Christmas we make them Christmas Eve morning. To speed up the process we now use a recipe that doesn't require refrigeration and a frosting recipe that hardens just a bit so the cookies store better. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Hope you will consider leaving a few of these yummy cookies for Santa this year. We know from exerience he really like them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.sweetsugarbelle.com/blog/2011/06/basic-sugar-cookie-recipe-2/">Cut Out Sugar Cookies </a></span><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.sweetsugarbelle.com/blog/2011/06/basic-sugar-cookie-recipe-2/">from The Adventures of Sweet Sugarbelle</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">** I always use almond extract and I use at least 3 t if not a bit more -- we REALLY like almond around here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Sugar-Cookie-Frosting/Detail.aspx">Sugar Cookie Icing</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I double this recipe, dividing it into 1 c portions and tinting each a different color for very festive cookies. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-24261340887576968612012-12-17T06:34:00.000-05:002013-01-21T09:10:10.353-05:007 Days of Holiday Treats - Peppermint Popcorm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipWWxuTUC0Ye_f37__vYcKGbv1w94b6SrJ7vSZsr8WYBEmpQGWF3uf76Eto7JQlTvn7jKEi2GqhLIdldmdEBMXsLsY1elY3ZG0HdcXz9_u7hZQRH983eiYKh8ZxYx8iwabcwkHmfQg3D0/s1600/DSC_0761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipWWxuTUC0Ye_f37__vYcKGbv1w94b6SrJ7vSZsr8WYBEmpQGWF3uf76Eto7JQlTvn7jKEi2GqhLIdldmdEBMXsLsY1elY3ZG0HdcXz9_u7hZQRH983eiYKh8ZxYx8iwabcwkHmfQg3D0/s320/DSC_0761.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I made this Pinterest find on a whim last year to take to a last minute holiday party. WOW! Not a single piece was left and they were asking for more. One of the best parts about this recipe is how easy it is. One word of caution -- You MUST use peppermint oil, NOT peppermint extract. The extract will sieze up the candy coating -- ask me how I know...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Peppermint Popcorn</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">2 bags microwave popcorn, popped -- I like to use salted for a sweet/salty taste</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">3 regular size candy canes, crushed</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">1 lb almond bark</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">5 - 8 drops of peppermint oil (no extract)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Toss popped corn and crushed candy canes in the largest bowl you can find. Melt almond bark according to package directions. Add peppermint oil and stir well -- at this point I do a taste test and add more oil if necessary. Pour almond bark over popcorn and toss until well-coated. Spread on parchment paper to harden - 45 min - hour. Break into pieces and enjoy. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-22155903401114203742012-12-16T13:55:00.001-05:002013-01-03T10:39:25.541-05:00Meal Plan Monday - December 17th<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEpLvF7W1BbU22YiEBvIVmXU0nncidxjag07y1vDp0pvp97fXTNr2LY1Zmx6qU1HvDvrsC0dyVTZL5Ha34QFRS5duQX0BD4LcbpVepfeu6rappZ5IuG6jj8RyZAajMQux-T66KnvVoGIg/s1600/orgjunkie_banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEpLvF7W1BbU22YiEBvIVmXU0nncidxjag07y1vDp0pvp97fXTNr2LY1Zmx6qU1HvDvrsC0dyVTZL5Ha34QFRS5duQX0BD4LcbpVepfeu6rappZ5IuG6jj8RyZAajMQux-T66KnvVoGIg/s1600/orgjunkie_banner.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This is a crazier than normal week. It is the last week of school before the holidays, everyone has midterm exams, we are scheduling extra tutoring sessions, and we have 3 doctors appointments (WHAT was I thinking). Add all that to our regular Girl Scout meetings, agility training and gymnastics PLUS 3 holiday parties (I'm hosting one) and my parents coming to town and you have really CRAZY! I don't have any real hopes of sticking to this meal plan, but we are going to give it a whirl! I've stuck to my TNT quick meals, so maybe....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Sunday</strong> - Hosting Holiday Wine Tasting -- DH and kids going to see the Hobbit</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Monday</strong> - </span><a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2010/12/how-to-eat-at-hom-on-go-week-10.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Meatball Subs</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Tuesday</strong> - </span><a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2010/09/how-to-eat-at-home-on-go-week-1-chef.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Chef Salads</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Wednesday</strong> - </span><a href="http://lovebeinginthekitchen.blogspot.com/2010/10/how-to-eat-at-home-on-go-week-2-baked.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Crockpot Baked Potatoes</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Thursday</strong> - Leftovers or pick up on the way home from </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Friday </strong>- Neighborhood Christmas Party </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Saturday</strong> - DH's High School Buddies Christmas Party</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Linking up to </span><a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2012/12/menu-plan-monday-dec-1712.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Meal Plan Monday at I'm An Organized Junkie</span></a><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-75935163955248074022012-12-16T11:43:00.000-05:002013-01-21T09:10:27.096-05:007 Days of Holiday Treats - Jam Thumbprints<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU6ud3t1K72a0bboUkooQCrVvsCd7yi5oO9e6k_scvVo0xnk2TBkaDhlLdemfurAQ0ejcz2KFMGPnPS0287lg55mAFzzvKEFVV9bgdmqO4Ve__iuX93bjKi1cWMHktxKSTiALz-733QHk/s1600/DSC_0749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU6ud3t1K72a0bboUkooQCrVvsCd7yi5oO9e6k_scvVo0xnk2TBkaDhlLdemfurAQ0ejcz2KFMGPnPS0287lg55mAFzzvKEFVV9bgdmqO4Ve__iuX93bjKi1cWMHktxKSTiALz-733QHk/s320/DSC_0749.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is such a traditional holiday cookie, but it is so delicious. I like to use a variety of homemade jams and jellies. I have used apricot, cherry, and strawberry. These also add color to your holiday cookie trays. <br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Jam Thumbprint Cookies</span></strong><br />
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1 c butter, softened<br />
2/3 c sugar<br />
1/2 t almond extract<br />
2 c all-purpose flour<br />
1/2 c jam or jelly of your choice<br />
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Glaze - <br />
1/2 c confectioners's sugar<br />
3/4 t almond extract<br />
1 t milk<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<br />
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In a medium bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Mix in 1/2 t almond extract. Mix in flour until dough comes together. Roll dough into 1 1/2 inch balls and place on a parchment lined baking sheet. Make an indention in each cookie with your thumb and fill with jam or jelly of your choice. <br />
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Bake for 14 - 18 minutes in preheated oven, or until very lightly browned. Let cool 1 minute on the cookie sheet. <br />
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In a medium bowl, mix together the confectioners' sugar, 3/4 t almond extract and milk until smooth. Drizzle lightly over warm cookies. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7846986797511281741.post-36713577209711393022012-12-15T11:56:00.000-05:002013-01-21T09:10:44.331-05:007 Days of Holiday Treats - Shortbread Bites<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5m4niUUmQyQqqr3aWASoS6gNpZLkE_Y-_g-CxfLSnzKFEAWzXGWsm3QO3yb6F8r4G56QuSK4pBJR9wNkm3HgCggdGh-bGKLNjTxRtTrpUZp2-AnZ4-5GcYLIJMxRplq3C98VhWK7PcEc/s1600/DSC_0617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5m4niUUmQyQqqr3aWASoS6gNpZLkE_Y-_g-CxfLSnzKFEAWzXGWsm3QO3yb6F8r4G56QuSK4pBJR9wNkm3HgCggdGh-bGKLNjTxRtTrpUZp2-AnZ4-5GcYLIJMxRplq3C98VhWK7PcEc/s320/DSC_0617.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Every year Dillards and Southern Living team up to create a Holiday Book you can only get at Dillards. My mom has been buying these every year for my sister and I as our Thanksgiving Present. One of our traditions has become leafing thorough our new bokos and deciding what to make. One year's find was these buttery, flavorful shortbread cookies. Now, I LOVE a good shortbread cookie, but the additions of chopped dried cherries and chocolate make these stand out. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">These yummy treats have a hard time making it to my cookie trays. They are so delicious I want to eat them all myself. If I'm being honest, I had to make two batches....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Chocolate Cherry Sugar Crusted Shortbread Bites</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Southern Living Ultimate Christmas Cookbook 2012</span></div>
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1 c butter, softened</div>
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1/2 c powdered sugar</div>
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2 1/2 c all-purpose flour</div>
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1/8 t salt</div>
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1/4 c semi-sweet mini chocolate chips (I just chopped up regular size chocolate chips)</div>
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1/4 c finely chopped dried cherries</div>
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1 t vanilla extract</div>
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1 T granulated sugar</div>
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1/2 c granulated sugar</div>
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Beat butter until creamy; add powdered sugar, beating well. </div>
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Combine flour and salt; gradually add to butter mixture, beating until well blended. Stir in chocolate cherries and vanilla.</div>
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Line an 8" square pan wtih aluminum foil, allowing foil to extend over edges of pan Lightly grease foil with cooking spray and sprinkle with 1 T granulated sugar. Press dough into pan.</div>
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Bake at 325 degrees for for 40 minutes or until slightly golden. Cool 30 minutes or until slightly warm in pan. Use foil to gently lift shortbread from pan. Cut shortbread into 1" squares using a long sharp knife. Roll shortbread squares in 1/2 c of granualted sugar. </div>
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Linking up at</div>
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<a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/2012/12/weekend-wrap-up-party-and-caravan-giveaway.html">Tatertots and Jello</a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1