tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39876627092004424822024-03-12T17:56:01.905-07:00A Bowl of CreativityDelicious recipes to be shared!!Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.comBlogger220125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-16313336749364675942015-06-11T14:35:00.003-07:002015-06-11T14:35:39.679-07:00Chicken Zucchini Fritters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
I know it's been awhile since I've posted anything and I really need to get back into the routine of updating my food blog. Life's been pretty hectic though and I miss cooking nice meals and being able to share them with people. I also need to figure out a way to combine my two blogs, or at least share a link. I've been better about posting to my fitness blog lately, which is LKNTraining.com<br />
<br />
Now that I'm an ACSM certified personal trainer, and I'm almost through with my pregnancy, I really want to start focusing on the two things I love: how to eat healthy and workout. I can't wait until my son Griffin is born, mostly because I really want to meet him, but also because I'm excited to challenge myself and see how long it takes to get back into the shape I was in Pre-pregnancy. It's good to set goals for yourself!<br />
<br />
One of those goals, is trying to stick to healthier decisions when it comes to food. I won't say that I've been really bad lately, but I've definitely given into my sweet tooth a little more then I wanted to this pregnancy. I'm trying to get back on track though, and the dinner I made last night was not only healthy, but absolutely delicious! It didn't take too long to make either, so if you're short on time, this is a good recipe to keep on hand. You can even prep it ahead of time, cover the meat mixture, and place it in the fridge until you're ready to cook it.<br />
<br />
<h2>
<b>Chicken Zucchini Fritters</b></h2>
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
2 medium zucchini's, grated<br />
Salt<br />
1 lb. lean ground chicken or lean ground turkey<br />
1/4 tsp. black pepper<br />
1/8 cup green onions, finely sliced<br />
1 egg<br />
2 cloves garlic, minced<br />
8 oz. ricotta cheese (I use fat free)<br />
Olive oil to sauté<br />
<br />
<b>Directions:</b><br />
Place the grated zucchini into a colander and sprinkle with some salt. <br />
Let sit for 10 minutes.<br />
<br />
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Once the 10 minutes is up, squeeze out the zucchini's. (I find that it's helpful to use paper towel for this step. You'll be amazed at just how much juice comes out of them.)<br />
Now, place the drained zucchini into a large bowl<br />
<br />
Next, add in the ground chicken or turkey, salt, pepper, green onions, egg, garlic, and the ricotta cheese.<br />
<br />
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<br />
Mix the ingredients together until well combined. (You can do this with a spoon, but I find it easiest to use my clean hands)<br />
<br />
After that, heat a large skillet over a medium heat and add in about 3-4 TBSP. of olive oil.<br />
Take about a tablespoon of your mixture, or a little more, and place it into the palm of your hand until you form a little round patty about 1/4-1/2 inch thick.<br />
Place the patty into the prepared skillet and cook for about 3 minutes on each side, or until it looks done.<br />
<br />
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<br />
Add more oil as needed.<br />
<br />
This recipe will make about 15-20 fritters. They're absolutely delicious served with a little cheese and some plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
Source: Slightly adapted from<a href="http://natashaskitchen.com/2013/09/20/chicken-zucchini-fritters-recipe/"> Natashas Kitchen</a><br />
<br />Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-70854749758837407352015-01-23T13:49:00.002-08:002015-01-23T13:49:45.564-08:00Garlic Chicken and Spinach Parmesean<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPFZ6-q1Ihl785LZxiJYNnjNsXNSd1hRWgVTbCGI_-09TdFQ43XQ90Omgath6pD__exXN5jowrXZ3R6IJfCZR8CrjwvkRjatQJkbaTacUsSYZxZbN5jDAILfIGEwemaJ7sDIGLLwNAkiM/s1600/IMG_0190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPFZ6-q1Ihl785LZxiJYNnjNsXNSd1hRWgVTbCGI_-09TdFQ43XQ90Omgath6pD__exXN5jowrXZ3R6IJfCZR8CrjwvkRjatQJkbaTacUsSYZxZbN5jDAILfIGEwemaJ7sDIGLLwNAkiM/s1600/IMG_0190.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Last night I was trying to come up with a quick, healthy, and easy dinner to make and just so happened to stumble across this particular recipe. At the time, I didn't really think that my husband Jeff really for spinach, but I figured he could just pick around it. Turns out he ended up eating it. He then informed me that he likes spinach as long as its cooked, otherwise its too leafy, like lettuce, which he doesn't like. I know, strange, right?<br />
<br />
Anyway......a great thing about this recipe is that I already had the ingredients that it required, therefore I didn't have to go out and spend any money. I even have enough ingredients left over that I could make it again this weekend, which I think I will. Mostly because it was absolutely delicious!<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Garlic Chicken and Spinach Parmesan<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/13M1_9yF9AmvK8msTBPEIiIAeZa-G9xTLUTvdlsymQPs/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1-2
TBSP. butter<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">5-6
cloves garlic, minced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
large chicken breasts, chopped into bite size pieces<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sea
Salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Black
Pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
cups baby spinach<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a large skillet, over a medium heat, saute the garlic for about a minute. After that, add in the chicken pieces, salt,
and a little pepper and cook until the chicken is done and no longer pink. Once ready, sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese,
and stir around until all the chicken pieces are coated. Lastly add it the spinach. It may look like a lot, but once you stir it
around and the leaves have wilted, you will have just the right amount.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Remove
the skillet from the heat, and dish onto a plate. You may serve as is, or over noodles or
rice. Whatever way you choose to enjoy
it, I recommend sprinkling on a little more black pepper and cheese!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Source:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Slightly adapted from <a href="http://simplyhealthyhome.com/garlic-parmesan-chicken/">Simply Healthy Home</a></span></div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-85498125782598134382015-01-15T16:44:00.005-08:002015-01-15T16:44:53.781-08:00Zero Carb-Chocolate Protein Packed Waffle SticksLet me see.......I'm not even sure where to really begin this post. I can't act like nothing happened, because I know that I disappeared for quite some time, and for that I'm very sorry. Apparently I had a lot going on in my life in 2014; all of which seemed to take me away from posting my recipes. <br />
<br />
Sadly, I originally disappeared because my loving grandfather passed away. At the time there was a lot of driving back and fourth between Michigan and North Carolina, and I didn't have my computer with me. After things began to settle back down, I became extremely busy studying for my new career as a personal trainer. Then of course there were vacations, family gatherings, weddings, and the holidays. <br />
<br />
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<br />
Hopefully I'm back now and I'm thrilled to say that there hasn't been a better time for me to be sharing healthy recipes! As most of you already know, I've always pretty much been a healthy eater, (or at least within the past 6 or 7 years) but right now it's extra important to eat healthy due to the fact that Jeff and I are expecting our first child this July!<br />
<br />
Today actually marks the start of week 14 for me, which means I've officially made it into my second trimester! All without being sick; and for that I owe someone a "thank you"! Surprisingly, at least based on the looks I get from my doctors and nurses, I've actually felt like myself throughout this pregnancy. I've been a little tired at times, but have still been able to workout almost everyday and I've also been able to continue to run. In fact I actually ran 4 miles yesterday and did 1.5 miles this afternoon. A lot of how I have been feeling has to do with what I eat. If I make some poor decisions, because let's face it, I'm human, and pregnant, I feel like crap and drag a little bit more than usual. If I eat light and healthy though, I feel great!<br />
<br />
With that being said, I'm excited to share today's recipe with you! Not only is this recipe a healthy and delicious one, but it's also a breakfast food, and I absolutely love breakfast! These waffles are incredibly quick and easy to make, and they're also high in protein and have zero carbs (except for whatever you put on top).<br />
<br />
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<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Zero Carb-Chocolate Protein Packed
Waffle Sticks</span></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EkI9wJ1QDJXo0o3GSTFI_CgYuFaUerDHmnPyh_DIkNQ/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-FriendlyVersion</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
Scoop chocolate protein powder (I use Whey Gold – Chocolate Malt)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
Large Egg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
Large Egg White<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
tsp. Baking Powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
TBSP. Water<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
tsp. Vanilla<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dash
of Cinnamon (optional)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Mix
all the ingredients together using a hand held mixer; or I always use my
Nutribullet. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">After
you heat up your waffle stick maker or a waffle iron spray it lightly with a
non-stick cooking spray.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Next, pour in
some of the batter and allow to cook until the waffle maker beeps at you or for
2-3 minutes.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Remove the prepared waffles
and garnish with toppings or your choosing.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I always like to put a little sugar free maple syrup and fresh fruit on
top of mine.</span></div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-86317079785820830192014-04-02T05:04:00.001-07:002014-04-02T05:06:57.437-07:00Coconut-Vanilla Granola<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixMpopl1B4kKvlg7YLwe5MfYfgZ4yOatZUtpSvRnaPaPOU9acImY-Zc7uicpoPEQLMBc9icb7AA1DDS6VnFVPSsPWx14brS7LfXAQsMNxNwZeRFg5JhMudUkoSFhEbcTqB-2xFgOHY-Mc/s1600/coconut+vanilla+granola.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixMpopl1B4kKvlg7YLwe5MfYfgZ4yOatZUtpSvRnaPaPOU9acImY-Zc7uicpoPEQLMBc9icb7AA1DDS6VnFVPSsPWx14brS7LfXAQsMNxNwZeRFg5JhMudUkoSFhEbcTqB-2xFgOHY-Mc/s1600/coconut+vanilla+granola.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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It's officially looking and feeling like springtime outside and I absolutely love it! What a gorgeous day! The sun's coming up, the sky's a wonderful shade of blue, leaves are beginning to appear on the trees, and my kitchen smells like the tropical aroma of coconuts.</div>
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<i><br /></i>
<i>Side note</i>: I pretty much love the smell of anything relating to coconut. (Coconut candles, coconut body wash, coconut lotion, etc.) </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
However, my love for all things coconut is not why my kitchen smells of coconut today. The reason it smells so wonderfully delicious, is because I'm currently baking a batch of coconut-vanilla granola. I absolutely love making granola because it makes such a great topping to pretty much anything you can think of. I personally put it on top of my Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, but it's also good as is, with just a little almond milk. Yummy!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwDtLZH2teoJ4bqaUnYLcUsRUiHq0YJ1q_rFKw8PITDLc9ekBUiFpNQVDf337QqVyA5llmd1iubIm8uQ3rwmGZM5t6N0Rlcpe3gi-JhvbYpDvFj_c2MUqRINanf4IDXDk4e9D9g6C5bXs/s1600/IMG_4595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwDtLZH2teoJ4bqaUnYLcUsRUiHq0YJ1q_rFKw8PITDLc9ekBUiFpNQVDf337QqVyA5llmd1iubIm8uQ3rwmGZM5t6N0Rlcpe3gi-JhvbYpDvFj_c2MUqRINanf4IDXDk4e9D9g6C5bXs/s1600/IMG_4595.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Coconut-Vanilla Granola<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mMDlVb0s1dkRWUXc/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3
½ cups old fashioned oats<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">¾
cup almonds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">½
cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
TBSP. light brown sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
tsp. ground cinnamon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">½
tsp. nutmeg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1/4 cup ground flaxseed</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4
TBSP. coconut oil, melted<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">½
cup maple syrup<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
tsp. vanilla extract<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1 tsp. coconut extract<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
vanilla bean, scraped out<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Preheat
oven to 325 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone
baking mat; set aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a medium bowl, combine the oats, almonds, coconut, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground flaxseed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
another bowl, whisk together the coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla and coconut
extract, and the vanilla bean scrapping.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Pour
the liquid ingredients into the dry ingredients, and stir around with a wooden
spoon until everything is well coated.
Empty the contents of the bowl onto the prepared baking sheet and spread
around to form an even layer. Place the
pan into the oven and let bake for 25-30 minutes. Make sure to stir it around every 10 minutes
or so, to allow even baking and to keep the granola from burning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Once
done, remove the pan from the oven and allow to cool. The granola may be stored in an airtight
container for about a week. Enjoy!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Kt51Y5NnAz3nUvpumtu7y1YadYmNGxwGVzqLl5T56kc1L6jPqQWb-_69Qfd-0RZxwVBjLM3DckIgcTo6JEcqkPUr4e2pdMOThwEwU3OD5yJAWCgQfdgQsLsBjf9JFFef6sSDe2fU0N8/s1600/IMG_4598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Kt51Y5NnAz3nUvpumtu7y1YadYmNGxwGVzqLl5T56kc1L6jPqQWb-_69Qfd-0RZxwVBjLM3DckIgcTo6JEcqkPUr4e2pdMOThwEwU3OD5yJAWCgQfdgQsLsBjf9JFFef6sSDe2fU0N8/s1600/IMG_4598.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-29064625781291578242014-03-29T05:10:00.003-07:002014-03-29T05:10:56.849-07:00Low-Carb Egg White Muffin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAayImPH-qs_ijOsi5KyfOfWYY-7vX02TBHUjPNisX-9wg2TSUwGAsoUF2_Lp0HXlg1qeWb6DZvZHEwS1gXBOtc6KsTc1R9LSuPG-En_pZTVt5LdUVQAA4XU1a_gHPjv3kcC-PXyS_zV4/s1600/egg+white+muffins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAayImPH-qs_ijOsi5KyfOfWYY-7vX02TBHUjPNisX-9wg2TSUwGAsoUF2_Lp0HXlg1qeWb6DZvZHEwS1gXBOtc6KsTc1R9LSuPG-En_pZTVt5LdUVQAA4XU1a_gHPjv3kcC-PXyS_zV4/s1600/egg+white+muffins.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I know I mentioned yesterday that I don't typically eat a large breakfast, but rather enjoy having a little something small, just to get my day started. With that being said, these little egg white muffins worked out perfectly! <br />
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This is definitely a recipe that I've been wanting to try for awhile now, mostly because they seemed like they'd be a great, make ahead, grab and go dish. So, what finally inspired me to break down and give them a try? That's easy. My best friend for the past 29 years, Christina, is visiting us this weekend and I really wanted to make something that was not only healthy, but would also be a breakfast that we could enjoy whenever.<br />
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Overall, I'd have to say that it was a success! These mini muffins are quick, easy, and reheat incredibly well. I also love the fact that they're only around 60 calories a piece!<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Low-Carb Egg White Muffins<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Printer-Friendly
Version<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">(Makes 12)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">8
whites<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
egg<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
cup fat-free cottage cheese (or less)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
cup chopped baby spinach<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4
TBSP. chopped onion<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
cup (or less) chopped green pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
cup shredded mozzarella cheese<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4
TBSP. Feta cheese<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3-5
TBSP. mini ham cubes <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
turkey sausage patties, chopped into pieces<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2-4
TBSP. bacon bits<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dash
of: chili powder, black pepper, and garlic powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Preheat
oven to 375 degrees and generously spray a muffin/cupcake pan with a nonstick cooking
spray. Set aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a medium size bowl, combine the egg, and the egg whites and then whisk together
until well combined. Set aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Heat
a skillet, with about 2-3 tsp. of olive oil, over a medium to high heat. Next, add in the green peppers and let sauté
until they begin to look a little tender.
This should take about 3-5 minutes.
You don’t want to let them cook fully, because you still have other
ingredients to add. After the peppers
have cooked some, add in the chopped up onion.
Once the onion appears soft and translucent, add in the spinach leaves
and continue to cook until the leaves begin to wilt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
the bowl with the egg mixture, add in all the remaining ingredients, including
the warm veggies. Whisk, or stir
together, until everything is well blended.
Pour the mixture into the muffin tin, filling each well about 1/2 full. Once ready, I sprinkled on a little extra
mozzarella cheese (that’s optional, but delicious)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Next,
place the pan into the oven and let bake for 25-30 minutes. Once complete, remove the pan from the oven
and let cool for around 5 minutes. After
that, pop the muffins out of the pan and enjoy!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Source: Adapted from <a href="http://eat-drink-love.com/2014/03/low-carb-egg-muffins/#comment-114817">Eat. Drink. Love.</a></span></div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-45880885382449110582014-03-28T03:38:00.000-07:002014-03-28T03:38:08.287-07:00Rise and Shine Protein Smoothie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ez4PyPLv0vgY88irVkmw3HgmM2jXupiu0R8-8t_ppSelECodilefKbae9uqwsbKeq6N6P6vBlbx1inE6zU_ldkOhNPyRq_g6M6o6_TSc5og1KoEnRX58XudVF1otQwQNEhwRPpECqHc/s1600/rise+and+shine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ez4PyPLv0vgY88irVkmw3HgmM2jXupiu0R8-8t_ppSelECodilefKbae9uqwsbKeq6N6P6vBlbx1inE6zU_ldkOhNPyRq_g6M6o6_TSc5og1KoEnRX58XudVF1otQwQNEhwRPpECqHc/s1600/rise+and+shine.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
Unless I'm on vacation, or it's a special occasion, I've never been much of a breakfast person; which seems weird, at least to me, because I'm one who absolutely LOVES breakfast foods! I'd have to say that it's definitely my all-time favorite category of food, which I know I've mentioned before! So why don't I usually eat it then? I'm just never really that hungry so early in the morning (I get up at 4:20). <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I don't skip that meal entirely, I do eat, it's just typically something small like a few hard boiled eggs, or lately, when I get home from the gym, it's been something like this delicious protein shake! Not only does this shake contain a great amount of protein, which I like to have a lot of first thing in the morning, but it also contains lots of good vitamins and minerals to help get me started for the day.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Tip *Please feel free to substitute Orange Juice in place of water, I just like to cut down calories wherever possible.* </i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Rise and Shine Protein Smoothie<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mbzFwTFZOUjdVRTQ/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
scoop vanilla protein powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
cup water (or orange juice)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">½
cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (I use Almond Breeze)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">½
- ¾ banana<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">½
grapefruit (I ended up just squeezing the juice from the half of the grapefruit,
instead of tossing it all in the blender; which ended up giving me more liquid,
and no pulp! It’s up to you.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">(If
you want your smoothie a little bit thicker, you could always add in ¼ cup
Greek yogurt) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Toss
all your ingredients into a blender, or in my case, a Nutribullet, and blend
until everything is well combined.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Pour
into a glass and enjoy!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-53686616557142632382014-03-25T05:35:00.000-07:002014-03-25T05:35:16.289-07:00Protein Packed Strawberry Cheesecake Pancakes (Low Carb)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZSnFL9_hE4ufjPcjXM3zgfEA5vzhN6PiaSpMti60FQkY8kSmIQ5Ai9_bZtsUuSw7OLzRkweV1AFUQUKNhN8Phc0zGfYYwuP8NR8FwjlPgso70Z2ZVCeGg-7JGDe-ccBL6-_4mh7yCEc/s1600/strawberry+pancakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZSnFL9_hE4ufjPcjXM3zgfEA5vzhN6PiaSpMti60FQkY8kSmIQ5Ai9_bZtsUuSw7OLzRkweV1AFUQUKNhN8Phc0zGfYYwuP8NR8FwjlPgso70Z2ZVCeGg-7JGDe-ccBL6-_4mh7yCEc/s1600/strawberry+pancakes.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Can you say YUMMY!!!!<br />
<br />
So far, living my healthier lifestyle is going well. It's been just over a week since I gave up sweets and other unhealthy foods, and I'm feeling great! Just because I took this step though, doesn't necessarily mean I have to sacrifice the flavors I enjoy, and I definitely proved that while I was experimenting with my basic protein packed pancake recipe.<br />
<br />
I just so happened to be purging my pantry this weekend, of some food that I no longer wanted in the house, when I stumbled across a few unopened packages of Sugar Free Jello Cheesecake Pudding. That's when the idea struck me! Strawberry cheesecake pancakes! I just so happened to have some fresh strawberries, which I love, in the refrigerator, and was planning to make protein pancakes for lunch anyway, so why not give it a try? <br />
<br />
I'm so glad I did too. These pancakes turned out absolutely delicious! Not only that, but they are incredibly healthy and filled with protein, which I love!<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Protein Packed Strawberry
Cheesecake Pancakes<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mN09yZ3BmZ0ZZWjA/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3
egg whites<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
scoop vanilla protein powder (I use Whey Gold French Vanilla Crème)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
tsp. baking powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
½ - 2 TBSP water<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
tsp. sugar free Jello cheesecake pudding mix<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
tsp. old fashion or instant oats<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Fresh
strawberries<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a Nutribullet, magic bullet, or something similar; combine all the ingredients
until well blended.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Next,
heat a skillet, on the stove, over a medium heat and spray with non-stick
cooking spray. (I always use Organic
Olive Oil Pam) Pour in some of the
batter and let cook. You will know it’s
time to flip the pancakes over once they start to puff up and bubble a
little. Repeat this process until all
the batter has been used.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Top
with some fresh strawberries and some sugar free maple syrup! Delicious.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZFEdQBZe4ZZjzexdgRWqGNbN_h_FP36FNAOYftPjxmoXqeCmDPpVMoQ-qKr0t6D51EQrm9LxGCE8KF-4wLw0TUDfQPoJ5SsoZDUDN-3GUDxoUH0cSxcLVXqTSsUlAoIfsjZ4XaTmibcA/s1600/pan.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZFEdQBZe4ZZjzexdgRWqGNbN_h_FP36FNAOYftPjxmoXqeCmDPpVMoQ-qKr0t6D51EQrm9LxGCE8KF-4wLw0TUDfQPoJ5SsoZDUDN-3GUDxoUH0cSxcLVXqTSsUlAoIfsjZ4XaTmibcA/s1600/pan.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
Nutrition Facts Per Serving (recipe makes 1 serving):<br />
Calories: 195<br />
Carbs: 8 grams<br />
Protein: 35 grams<br />
<br />Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-60571210613536179462014-03-23T05:01:00.002-07:002015-01-20T06:13:54.750-08:00Snickerdoodle Protein Shake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-GCsENuNM76KgGQ0CgwfV_ZlSvPweHociVOBOnMH22fwLCmDcICX0_HgRXOz-TYH33otHl7vGKuFCA5JziTWH9pP19vBZT4o949pFmMGZ0diWngLiZXLewm_V_EPE-Q0a1JdK2SVLCUw/s1600/snickerdoodle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-GCsENuNM76KgGQ0CgwfV_ZlSvPweHociVOBOnMH22fwLCmDcICX0_HgRXOz-TYH33otHl7vGKuFCA5JziTWH9pP19vBZT4o949pFmMGZ0diWngLiZXLewm_V_EPE-Q0a1JdK2SVLCUw/s1600/snickerdoodle.jpg" height="640" width="442" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A healthy sweet? Now that's what I call an oxymoron.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I've had it! This post officially marks a change in my lifestyle. I've decided that I need to do something different. I'm like a drug addict; except for the fact that my drug is sugar; which studies have shown can actually be just as addictive as cocaine. I know that I've blogged about eating healthy, which I do, but if I'm 100% honest, I've caved to my sweets cravings numerous times since the beginning of the year. This is never a huge deal for me though, because I work out a lot, but I'm finally sick and tired of it. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's for this reason that I tried giving up sweets (mostly chocolate) for lent, but honestly, that lasted all of 3 or 4 days; which to me is absolutely pathetic! I personally know that I have more will power than that, but for some reason its been lacking lately and I'm over it. I've finally come to the realization that I just need to cut out sugar all together. I can't fool myself any longer and say that I can have only one little bite of something sweet; that's just not true (at least for me). It'd be like giving a drug addict one little dose of crack and saying that they'll be fine. It can't be done. So, to give you an idea about how bad my addiction can sometimes be, let me just say that I can easily eat an entire package of Oreo cookies in one sitting and I'm not even joking. It's shameful!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In addition to this, the really sad part is that I workout like crazy. I'm talking 3-4 times a day, for an hour or more. If I'd just eat clean in addition to exercising, I know I'd show better results. I seem to go through spurts though. I've been on and off the bandwagon so many times, (as you can probably tell from previous posts), but this time I'm really going to make it work.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
One of the main reasons I'm so dedicated to focusing on nutrition is because back in October, after 9 years of teaching, I finally decided to leave the profession and now I've figured out will be next. I'm going to become a personal trainer; which I guess is kind of like a teacher, only you don't have to deal with all the politics. I've been fortunate enough, through my husband's job, to work with personal trainers for the past 3 years and have really been into physical fitness for the past 5-6. I'm what some might call a fitness fanatic and have lost around a total of 40 pounds; although depending on my food consumption, that number can sometimes change, which is why I'm determined to be healthy in all areas of my life. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Therefore, I've decided that I need to focus on dedicating my life to practicing what I preach. I know what sugary and non-healthy foods can do to ones body, especially my own. It doesn't take long either for all that sugar to change my physical appearance and vice versa.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeiHizpqvNdO9R2xGOfpy4Ynv7O073I0mXVycRpXbBDOMFShKpvlpL3SdQof0v8dEd-VbfeDTc_OJ1jDCv27tzJqyF7ij4HrgD9qsiBJkvo48N-aZ-gTB8nOFte9JKL6rM3ETr-t4vGFY/s1600/jamie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeiHizpqvNdO9R2xGOfpy4Ynv7O073I0mXVycRpXbBDOMFShKpvlpL3SdQof0v8dEd-VbfeDTc_OJ1jDCv27tzJqyF7ij4HrgD9qsiBJkvo48N-aZ-gTB8nOFte9JKL6rM3ETr-t4vGFY/s1600/jamie.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 Month Transformation after eating right and exercising</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The picture on the left is the beginning of the month, the center photo is the middle of the month, and the right photo is day 30.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You can definitely see the weight loss in the face, arms, legs, hips, and thighs.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I often use this photo as my reminder of what sugar and unhealthy habits do to my body (It was taken last June). Due to this, I'm currently on day 6 of no sugar or sweets and I'm once again feeling great! In fact, other than an occasional protein bar (I love Questbars), or a Greek yogurt, I've had no packaged foods. Day 2 was especially difficult though and here's why: I had little to no energy, ended up crashing in the afternoon, and almost ended up caving, mostly because I knew that something with sugar would give me the temporary rush I needed. It was difficult, but I'm happy to announce that I stayed strong, making it over the hump and through the withdrawals, and now I plan to continue going. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Don't ever give up, it's all about determination and willpower!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
With that in mind, let's get to today's recipe. I've been really into making protein shakes lately and not only was this particular one delicious, but it's healthy and is a great energy booster. Enjoy! There will definitely be more to come soon!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Snickerdoodle Protein Shake<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mdHpmbTE4VkZKdVk/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
scoop vanilla protein powder <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (I use almond breeze, 40 calories per cup)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
cup water<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
tsp. sugar free Vanilla Caramel Coffee Mate Creamer<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
tsp. ground cinnamon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">6-8
ice cubes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">*Optional
– 1 tsp. Just Great Stuff (Organic powdered peanut butter; 45 calories a
serving, which is 2 TBSP, compared to the traditional 190 calories a serving for 2 TBSP)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Add
all the ingredients into a blender and pulse until the ice has been
pureed. Pour into a glass and garnish
with a little extra cinnamon. Enjoy!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Source: Slightly adapted from <a href="http://www.maybeiwill.com/2013/09/52-weeks-of-protein-shakes-week-10.html">Maybe I Will</a></div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-48595655680489698822014-03-12T06:27:00.005-07:002014-03-12T06:27:45.070-07:00Cinnamon-Vanilla Protein Packed Pancakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVTFPtOcBydwaVyc5hbL0xS5A_GvL8ehqN-R5wYhe3C8e0kX4cBC9cv2li-_5CxE_K40Ez6F_gPNGzC5SMTPORHFe3U5yd-9rsQLWXFvC9SunGyJbNbLYU1VkMGSOIyPNvvU0q3-7cTPc/s1600/cinnamon+vanilla+pancakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVTFPtOcBydwaVyc5hbL0xS5A_GvL8ehqN-R5wYhe3C8e0kX4cBC9cv2li-_5CxE_K40Ez6F_gPNGzC5SMTPORHFe3U5yd-9rsQLWXFvC9SunGyJbNbLYU1VkMGSOIyPNvvU0q3-7cTPc/s1600/cinnamon+vanilla+pancakes.jpg" height="640" width="472" /></a></div>
<br />
I feel like I've died and gone to heaven!!!!<br />
<br />
One of my all-time favorite foods, has always been, and will always be, pancakes! I absolutely LOVE pancakes! So much so, that a friend of mine actually had to pay for my breakfast once because he bet me that there was no way I could eat the huge stack of pancakes that came with my morning meal. Sadly, he underestimated my love.<br />
<br />
My love of pancakes started when I was young. Growing up I can remember staying the night with my grandparents and in the morning my grandpa would make us all pancakes! To this day, I still have never had a pancake that even comes close in comparison to his. They're definitely my all time favorite and I miss them a ton. Actually, I miss pancakes in general; or at least I did, until yesterday. You see, once I started really watching what I ate, I kind of decided to give them up. To me, pancakes just have too many empty carbs. (even though they're delicious). <br />
<br />
However, I'm always on the lookout for a lower carb. version and the other day I just so happened to stumble across one that looked interesting; mostly because it contained no flour. I decided right away to give it a try, and oh my gosh, I am absolutely addicted! I already plan to make them for lunch again today! Looking at the recipe, you might think, "how is it possible that it will form pancakes?", but I promise you, it does.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Nutrition: </i></b> The recipes makes 1 serving, which equals about 10 pancakes, depending on the size you make them. Each serving is around 170 calories (depending on your protein powder choice), 34 grams of protein, and 3 grams of carbs.<br />
<br />
I topped mine with a tiny bit of Log Cabin sugar free maple syrup; which only added about another 10 calories. Absolutely delicious, and very filling!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7EO6CX3iojq7BZvsVT1PW0uABtXjM1DAihxw7L7qpnjSfBI3HDkKFnFKbXdW66zJQPig_How3_ub9kppeuRhLejNmwb9-npEAnwjY31qxGXfkgvDy1YypzYC6JqM14kuBY67Bv7LpezQ/s1600/IMG_4529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7EO6CX3iojq7BZvsVT1PW0uABtXjM1DAihxw7L7qpnjSfBI3HDkKFnFKbXdW66zJQPig_How3_ub9kppeuRhLejNmwb9-npEAnwjY31qxGXfkgvDy1YypzYC6JqM14kuBY67Bv7LpezQ/s1600/IMG_4529.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Cinnamon-Vanilla Protein Packed
Pancakes</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mVFA2RS1SWjBLLXM/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3
egg whites<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
scoop vanilla protein powder (I use Whey Gold Vanilla Crème)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
tsp. cinnamon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
tsp. baking powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
½ - 2 TBSP. water<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a Nutribullet, magic bullet, or something similar, combine all the ingredients.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Heat
a skillet, on the stove, over a medium heat and spray with non-stick cooking
spray. (I always use Organic Olive Oil
Pam) Pour in some of the batter and let cook. You will know it’s time to flip them over once
the pancakes start to puff up and bubble a little. Repeat this process until all the batter has
been used.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Enjoy!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjg7x4BY0rq3EC34eTuxjRIPOZPoODKnJZyHA17LYzAuzdrgHykgz0dTlHO1MHHW3uHyL7XMOkBVlbIDw4GlmtH93d2Y1pyuparyFyM0aD72HxB4OGVYJX_BW5wtabdPrybc1rJ7L9dDU/s1600/IMG_4530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjg7x4BY0rq3EC34eTuxjRIPOZPoODKnJZyHA17LYzAuzdrgHykgz0dTlHO1MHHW3uHyL7XMOkBVlbIDw4GlmtH93d2Y1pyuparyFyM0aD72HxB4OGVYJX_BW5wtabdPrybc1rJ7L9dDU/s1600/IMG_4530.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Source: Adapted from <a href="http://www.muscleandfitnesshers.com/recipes/no-carb-banana-perfection-protein-pancakes">Muscle and Fitness Magazine</a></span></div>
<br />Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-33981623021821210542014-03-04T09:20:00.000-08:002014-03-04T17:44:07.929-08:00Jalapeno Popper Wontons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglAVHCEe_d8PpHN0y9iyrmEq5wEMw5ebhGQor-CKtcXT0R5ScPmnxM9RFvcBiuqHjzdO62B7L-rFXo3ehcHAPIWmqhNQLSd06VUvwxV18mP4VqMi13zoRMmoqLg5unA3yzKt64wyNdwVw/s1600/jalapeno+popper+wontons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglAVHCEe_d8PpHN0y9iyrmEq5wEMw5ebhGQor-CKtcXT0R5ScPmnxM9RFvcBiuqHjzdO62B7L-rFXo3ehcHAPIWmqhNQLSd06VUvwxV18mP4VqMi13zoRMmoqLg5unA3yzKt64wyNdwVw/s1600/jalapeno+popper+wontons.jpg" height="418" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Happy Mardi Gras and "Fat Tuesday" everyone. I guess that means it's time to overindulge and then of course, give it all up tomorrow!!! <br />
<br />
I like to tell myself that one of these days, I'll go to New Orleans and partake in the festivities. I've been there once before and had a good time; it just wasn't during Mardi Gras. I think it'd definitely be fun though, which leads me to today's funny story, or at least it's funny now, but maybe not at the time.....<br />
<br />
With it being Mardi Gras, I attempted to make my first traditional 'King Cake', for a party, and believe me when I say that it did not go well. I usually consider myself a pretty good cook/baker, but for some reason, I just could not get the pastry dough to rise. I originally made one cake on Saturday night, but was not satisfied because it did not turn out the way I wanted (it seemed doughy). Therefore, I tried making 2 more batches on Sunday morning, and neither one of those rose. I was definitely getting frustrated (poor Jeff), and about to make a 3rd attempt when I figured I should get some new yeast. Jeff was nice enough to run to the store for me, and then I tried again. Long story short, I attempted to make a total of 8 King Cakes, and still was not 100% satisfied with the final result. I've determined that anyone who can make them look pretty is amazing to me. I apparently am not meant to live in New Orleans and definitely am not meant to make these on a regular basis or ever again.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lK2f-8LvElYKDtu5OTi7cUGcKYPELKOpEvJRlulV9irWI4j9GE9A7pZHb7M2HPAv3G3wxqyYuvVDtHmeSVvX_8FGrj76kbjkVJ6YJGzx3hdiDfMTdjQkCpD3aDkNic7HoBxkEskNv7U/s1600/king+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lK2f-8LvElYKDtu5OTi7cUGcKYPELKOpEvJRlulV9irWI4j9GE9A7pZHb7M2HPAv3G3wxqyYuvVDtHmeSVvX_8FGrj76kbjkVJ6YJGzx3hdiDfMTdjQkCpD3aDkNic7HoBxkEskNv7U/s1600/king+cake.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<br />
That's enough of my kitchen failures though, so let's move on to my successes......<br />
<br />
With it being "Fat Tuesday" and all, I decided the other night that I wanted to cook something for Jeff using a method I typically avoid, which is deep frying. So what did I deep fry? Jalapeno popper wontons to be exact. This dish is traditionally meant to be more of an appetizer, but seeing that I wasn't going to be having any, it was more than enough for Jeff to eat as a main meal. In fact, he actually had leftovers to take for lunch. Mostly because this recipe yields about 30-40 wontons; which he added, were absolutely delicious!<br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Jalapeno Popper
Wontons<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mS0JVaGJEdVNkUVk/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Wonton
wrappers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
(8 oz.) package of cream cheese (I always use 1/3<sup>rd</sup> less fat)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3
jalapenos, minced (seeds removed)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2/3
cup shredded cheddar cheese<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dash
of garlic powder (not too much) - optional<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dash
of cayenne pepper - optional<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Vegetable
oil, for frying<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sea
Salt, for garnish<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a small to medium bowl and using a hand held mixer, beat the cream cheese until
smooth in texture. Add in the jalapenos
and cheddar cheese (plus garlic powder and cayenne pepper; if you desire) and
mix on a low speed until just incorporated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Lay
out a few wonton wrappers at a time, and add about a teaspoon of filling onto
the center of each wrapper. Using your
fingers, fold the wrappers over, to form a triangle and smear a little water around
the edges to seal the two sides together.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Heat
the vegetable oil over a medium heat, until it reaches around 350 degrees. Fry the wontons in small batches until they
turn a nice golden brown. You may need
to flip them over while in the oil, just be careful as you do so. Remove the wontons with a slotted spoon and
place on a plate lined with paper towel to remove the excess oil. Garnish with the sea salt while they are
still hot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Once
they have slightly cooled, serve and enjoy!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Source: Slightly adapted from <a href="http://www.tasteandtellblog.com/jalapeno-popper-wontons/">Taste and Tell</a></span></div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-41340784639288591792014-02-23T05:54:00.003-08:002014-02-23T05:54:20.011-08:00Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Scones (aka....The Death of Me)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi35ky6b6st2tsYkrgOvcs3cbl9Cu1fBzMQ66DI7qg6Je6K08V3v9HjosTxasBtugDgqta72CQaohMIMzHpVw4hlAze1kq5F_BMVm1WskfnSbB7r81hHewMSu4wzKZDBoBLVSiSdxdop-0/s1600/chocolate+chip+cinnamon+roll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi35ky6b6st2tsYkrgOvcs3cbl9Cu1fBzMQ66DI7qg6Je6K08V3v9HjosTxasBtugDgqta72CQaohMIMzHpVw4hlAze1kq5F_BMVm1WskfnSbB7r81hHewMSu4wzKZDBoBLVSiSdxdop-0/s1600/chocolate+chip+cinnamon+roll.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Oh no! I have a confession to make. I may have fallen off my food challenge for the month, but hey, I'm only human. I'm not going to beat myself up over it though, because let's face it, things happen and as long as you don't let it define you, it's ok. I'm proud to say that I'm back on track now. I even bought a few boxes of Girl Scout cookies, to bake with, and haven't even opened them. Now that's will power.<br />
<br />
So what was the death of me? Why exactly did I fall off the bandwagon, especially when I was going strong? That's easy.....I made the biggest mistake I possibly could. I baked Jeff these delicious looking chocolate chip cinnamon roll scones. I thought I was being nice, and doing a good thing, so that he wouldn't just have to eat Pop Tarts for breakfast throughout the week. Little did I know that they'd be my downfall.<br />
<br />
I stayed strong for awhile. When the scones were in the oven baking, they smelled delicious, when they came out of the oven they looked even better, and when I added the frosting and garnish of chocolate chips, that's when I really knew I was in trouble. Yet I stayed strong. It wasn't until the following day, when I was hungry, that I decided to cut one of the scones in half so that I could have it with my coffee. And yes, that's right, I was still going to be good, so I cut it in half, but who was I kidding? It was delicious that I ended up eating the other half too.<br />
<br />
So, consider yourself warned. Bake these scones at your own risk, but I promise you, they're definitely worth it if you decide to slip!<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Chocolate
Chip Cinnamon Roll Scones<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mZUV3OEdpN3JSSlk/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Makes
about 16 scones<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Filling:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">8
TBSP. (1 stick) butter, room temperature<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">½
cup, firmly packed brown sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
TBSP. cinnamon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dough:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4
cups all-purpose flour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1/3
cups granulated sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
TBSP. baking powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
- ½ tsp. salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">8
TBSP. cold butter, cut into slices<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
cup mini chocolate chips<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
+ ½ - ¾ cup half and half<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Icing:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4
oz. cream cheese (I always use 1/3<sup>rd</sup> less fat), softened<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4
TBSP. butter, room temperature<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
cups confectioner’s sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">½
tsp. vanilla extract<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1-3
tsp. milk<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For
the Filling:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a small bowl, using a hand held mixer, mix together the butter, brown sugar,
and cinnamon until smooth and creamy in appearance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dough:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a large bowl whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Next, cut in the butter slices until the
mixture is crumbly in appearance. You
can use forks, knives, or a pastry blender for this. Don’t judge, but I always end up using my
fingers, because honestly, that’s what works the best for me. Once ready, add in the chocolate chips and
whisk around until they are evenly distributed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Pour
in 1 ¼ cup of the half and half and stir around with a wooden spoon until the
ingredients start to come together.
Slowly add in the rest of the half and half, as needed (You might not
need it all). The ingredients should not
be soggy in appearance, but instead, should form dryer looking dough. *After the initial stirring of ingredients, I
always use my hands to knead the dough together.*<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Place
the dough on a lightly floured work surface, or baking mat and roll out into a
rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvHUQCvZrxr-YhkLVDpxPhHqwRqOd9RquLSagzl3BXA9WYAY4ZPRP5Nm0-zyw_WYWgIbI8o0N3qu6Q2aHuBa7uvNOupcxwY3MYclO_8YdNJtrPW1ioNMupF-iEpvWe6RqUripn2Nwnrn0/s1600/IMG_4435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvHUQCvZrxr-YhkLVDpxPhHqwRqOd9RquLSagzl3BXA9WYAY4ZPRP5Nm0-zyw_WYWgIbI8o0N3qu6Q2aHuBa7uvNOupcxwY3MYclO_8YdNJtrPW1ioNMupF-iEpvWe6RqUripn2Nwnrn0/s1600/IMG_4435.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">After
that, spread the cinnamon filling evenly out over the top of the dough. Make sure that you leave room around the
edges so that the filling </span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;">doesn't</span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> overflow once you roll it up. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE5NK3-nhHe7fF8FUXxx3PF4pl3kFLV2UhQQccZqhatDRYRAhbjHoWzjx62KffzWsv-xY1tFFyv8XYJS9R7tn63B3HoZOV31QEkzJd6AXFVxEHVKIWrx7QfckJ5jq9vnFte1iyaXv37fk/s1600/IMG_4438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE5NK3-nhHe7fF8FUXxx3PF4pl3kFLV2UhQQccZqhatDRYRAhbjHoWzjx62KffzWsv-xY1tFFyv8XYJS9R7tn63B3HoZOV31QEkzJd6AXFVxEHVKIWrx7QfckJ5jq9vnFte1iyaXv37fk/s1600/IMG_4438.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Beginning with one of the long sides of the
dough, roll it up to form a log.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNWstM8IJcDG7iZYZx5CrS8w48UN0umNLXkdxpo8Vx4Nks1hRuJctkZQ6T7DusAbk0D10TDCAi2y6OXRKdRAxCR683N-Ap9XBQpaJhAU1I2jl-HnvfW8wGTuznmvTJ7ctIgfPPo99eR_o/s1600/IMG_4440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNWstM8IJcDG7iZYZx5CrS8w48UN0umNLXkdxpo8Vx4Nks1hRuJctkZQ6T7DusAbk0D10TDCAi2y6OXRKdRAxCR683N-Ap9XBQpaJhAU1I2jl-HnvfW8wGTuznmvTJ7ctIgfPPo99eR_o/s1600/IMG_4440.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Place
the prepared dough into the refrigerator while you preheat the oven. This will make the dough easier to cut into
slices.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Preheat
oven to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone
baking mat; set aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Once
the oven is preheated, remove the dough log from the fridge and cut off the
little ends (you could choose to discard them, but that’s yummy goodness you’d
be throwing out, so why not bake them and enjoy). Slice the dough into about 1-inch thick
pieces and place them onto the prepared baking sheet(s). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWhbP7zjjvRiV-RrVn1Gb3IGPJtP2vjpq-lagrazMaXUUPTR-g0CBz6M__ozYXXcIs9djP_1XviBNtVCq4PKUbwBAZksQZL-v-Kk0mStuSDcZi0wMV2jF6E8jVjTZg-ns7YDZHKA8-zj0/s1600/IMG_4442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWhbP7zjjvRiV-RrVn1Gb3IGPJtP2vjpq-lagrazMaXUUPTR-g0CBz6M__ozYXXcIs9djP_1XviBNtVCq4PKUbwBAZksQZL-v-Kk0mStuSDcZi0wMV2jF6E8jVjTZg-ns7YDZHKA8-zj0/s1600/IMG_4442.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Place the baking sheet(s) into the oven and
let bake for 20-22 minutes or until the scones are lightly golden around the
edges. Make sure to rotate pans halfway
through baking. Remove the baking sheets
from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes.
After that, remove the scones to a wire rack and allow to cool
completely.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For
the Icing:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter, using a hand held
mixer. Once ready, it should be smooth
and creamy in texture. Now, add in the
sugar, vanilla, and 1 tsp. of the milk.
Begin by beating on low and increase the speed as needed. Add in more milk until you reach your desired
consistency of icing. I liked mine a
little thick, so I stuck to only 1 tsp. of milk.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Place
the icing into a pastry bag, or a ziplock bag, and cut off the tip. Drizzle it over the scones and garnish with
some extra mini chocolate chips. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Goes
great with a cup of coffee! Enjoy!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4k1DOkuBcWtLOOZRuJ6t15TOIg4E3rJeGrDs39xKMU0mtr9Vc-200lcYO68g4mW0ET62GOAOR2FZhCrnns-WmkLODUMnj0AtDiSNACQQz3ADMnvMb74Rp9jRza38L2Hjry3nDFi7Vhs/s1600/IMG_4449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4k1DOkuBcWtLOOZRuJ6t15TOIg4E3rJeGrDs39xKMU0mtr9Vc-200lcYO68g4mW0ET62GOAOR2FZhCrnns-WmkLODUMnj0AtDiSNACQQz3ADMnvMb74Rp9jRza38L2Hjry3nDFi7Vhs/s1600/IMG_4449.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Source: <a href="http://www.cinnamonspiceandeverythingnice.com/chocolate-chip-cinnamon-roll-scones-w-cream-cheese-icing/#DGvPdpFZGchEu86S.32">Cinnamon Spice and Everything Nice</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-26663049056471407432014-02-19T05:39:00.003-08:002014-02-19T05:39:48.032-08:00Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Chili<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwNuRO9J88m9c33zj7oohFOOL1UnbrOg4j8oMkctXq5RXUHPd9Hop-oH0RK56L355rnKnVlPxFYi2_Fd0T2qBtg4e0SGYsP-jinhvdZ0X1u7kex8ZnHUNfDY5ffsnYOxNHwjiKchAuk0/s1600/chicken+taco+chili.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwNuRO9J88m9c33zj7oohFOOL1UnbrOg4j8oMkctXq5RXUHPd9Hop-oH0RK56L355rnKnVlPxFYi2_Fd0T2qBtg4e0SGYsP-jinhvdZ0X1u7kex8ZnHUNfDY5ffsnYOxNHwjiKchAuk0/s1600/chicken+taco+chili.jpg" height="420" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I can't believe how fast the weekend went by and that it's already Wednesday again! In fact, the whole second part of last week and even this week just seemed to disappear in a flash. Last week, it was mostly due to the weather, but this week it's just because I've been busy. Believe it or not, it actually snowed here in North Carolina, and everything (I mean EVERYTHING) closed down. <br />
<br />
Being from Michigan, I usually laugh when the meteorologists forecast snow. Although I have to admit, at least for this time around, there was good reason for the panic. However, I still find humor in the situation. The storm that went through brought the most snow I've seen in the 9 years that we've been down here and the city doesn't have a good way to clear off the roads. Due to this, people just abandon their cars on the side of the road and no one goes out. After a day or so, when I finally decided myself that it was time to leave the house, my car actually slid backwards a little down the driveway due to the ice (and I'm someone who knows how to drive in the snow). The only good thing about the snowstorm was due to the fact that everything was closed, I got to spend an afternoon or two, relaxing with Jeff. It was nice!<br />
<br />
Now, before I get to today's post, I believe I promised that I'd share the last of my Valentine's Day surprise gifts, so here they are....<br />
<br />
Day 12: I love the "WAY" you love me!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsNozVd4FdUhTMgyn1EReDSrlOPREJXGiLIW9i7ZL-IDNz-yRwnqXK3qf4zZKLuLxMoSJD44i9POzX0Pa-NyMsT02oGmoryvh0LkXijCoMkngw-4QJRWn9VhoenC1PQBFKw-KmEGtP7zY/s1600/way.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsNozVd4FdUhTMgyn1EReDSrlOPREJXGiLIW9i7ZL-IDNz-yRwnqXK3qf4zZKLuLxMoSJD44i9POzX0Pa-NyMsT02oGmoryvh0LkXijCoMkngw-4QJRWn9VhoenC1PQBFKw-KmEGtP7zY/s1600/way.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Day 13: I can't "PICTURE" my life without you!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsElkNGA-mfvLwxHdkgkqcND0tzsR3JHJ4MwKC0wNf63q7SLPNXFF6MknPDmEeMMzHPq-jE0fX8mPbZ8pt7S18Iyworw3PfbTFvcSOQ9o8BbwxuhJkYZQ9ajrCX6JoBWbMFP6iqC_qBgY/s1600/picture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsElkNGA-mfvLwxHdkgkqcND0tzsR3JHJ4MwKC0wNf63q7SLPNXFF6MknPDmEeMMzHPq-jE0fX8mPbZ8pt7S18Iyworw3PfbTFvcSOQ9o8BbwxuhJkYZQ9ajrCX6JoBWbMFP6iqC_qBgY/s1600/picture.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Day 14: You make my heart "BUBBLE" over with happiness!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPNAW9ujT692PqlitsOLaM5EuH9NPVg2ql4M-AAKJB5BmMIDYfd6YGh6BAQVP5kbj67wCcbviROYPbbusmWij7WF_0A5ew-2QW30sLW4R42HTb14MJnyj1_X1xL5R9o_PRk6T6Pzh3gCc/s1600/bubble.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPNAW9ujT692PqlitsOLaM5EuH9NPVg2ql4M-AAKJB5BmMIDYfd6YGh6BAQVP5kbj67wCcbviROYPbbusmWij7WF_0A5ew-2QW30sLW4R42HTb14MJnyj1_X1xL5R9o_PRk6T6Pzh3gCc/s1600/bubble.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
I hope that these little ideas help spark your own creative side. The gifts don't just have to be for Valentine's Day either; you could always run with the idea and countdown, or up, to other things.<br />
<br />
Let's move on though, and get to today's recipe which is for chicken taco chili, and yes, it tastes just as good as it sounds. Plus, the meal is incredibly easy to make and will have your whole home smelling delicious!<br />
<br />
I'm one who always loves and appreciates a good slow cooker meal, and this is definitely a keeper! It's a perfect combination of flavors, and you can make it as hot or mild tasting as you like, depending on what degree of ingredients you choose to add. Plus, this chili is also healthy! <br />
<br />
It's not spring quite yet, so sit back, grab a spoon, and enjoy! <br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Chili<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Printer-Friendly
Version<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3-4
large boneless skinless chicken breasts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">½
an onion, chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
16 oz. can black beans, drained<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
16 oz. can kidney beans<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
8 oz. can tomato sauce<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">14
oz. of corn<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
14.5 oz. cans of Rotel tomatoes with chilies (I used HOT, and pureed it in a
Nutribullet to give it more of a salsa like texture)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
packet taco seasoning (Once again, I use HOT)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
TBSP. cumin<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
TBSP. chili powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dash
of cayenne pepper (optional)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Chili
peppers, chopped (optional)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
cup cilantro, chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
your slow cooker, sprayed with a non-stick cooking spray, add in the onion,
black beans, kidney beans, tomato sauce, corn, Rotel, taco seasoning, cumin,
chili powder, cayenne pepper, and chili peppers (If you are including them). Stir the ingredients around with a spoon
until well combined. Place your chicken
breasts on top of the mixture and cook on HIGH for 6 hours, or LOW for 10. About an hour before done, remove the chicken
and shred it. Once the chicken has been shredded,
place it back into the slow cooker and stir around. Make sure that all the pieces have been
coated with the chili and let finish cooking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Garnish
with Fritos, tortilla chips, rice, or cheese.
The possibilities are endless!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Source: <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2008/11/crock-pot-chicken-taco-chili-4-pts.html">Skinny Taste</a></span></div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-79808551610041536042014-02-12T12:08:00.002-08:002014-02-12T12:08:45.623-08:00Sriracha Chicken Thighs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA56mb4T9ZkC7CTBlFwscCG1_tPHTllMLPVA199B8W9QL4pf1kdmfCD2zPil4r5F2BIV63Yi2aNOG0V-KEjSQr1fFmNfvWx_113DpsVGGJz3M4k9wYOZgde1IDzuhYj1QhC1b_btN30WA/s1600/Sriracha+chicken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA56mb4T9ZkC7CTBlFwscCG1_tPHTllMLPVA199B8W9QL4pf1kdmfCD2zPil4r5F2BIV63Yi2aNOG0V-KEjSQr1fFmNfvWx_113DpsVGGJz3M4k9wYOZgde1IDzuhYj1QhC1b_btN30WA/s1600/Sriracha+chicken.jpg" height="438" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Jeff's a big fan of anything spicy and I know how much he likes sriracha sauce, so the other night for dinner, I decided to make him some sriracha chicken thighs. Personally, I can't tell you what it tasted like, because it isn't my type of meal (for one thing, I'm not a big fan of chicken thighs, and for another, I don't really care for sriracha sauce), but Jeff tells me that the thighs turned out fantastic. Therefore, I'm going to take his word and share the recipe.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here it is! <br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sriracha Chicken Thighs<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mXzRhdks3NHVhV0U/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">10
chicken thighs, skin on<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Juice
of 1 ½ - 2 oranges<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1-2
TBSP. Sriracha sauce, depending on how hot you like it (I added a little more)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
tsp. honey<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3-4
TBSP. red onion, finely chopper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dash
of salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Chopped
parsley<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sesame
seeds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Preheat
oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil; set aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a small bowl stir together the orange juice, sriracha sauce, honey, onion, and
salt. Taste to see if it’s too hot, or
not hot enough. If you want it hotter,
add more sauce. If it’s too hot, add a
little more honey. (I just had to guess and hope it wasn’t too hot, because I’m
not a fan of sriracha sauce)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Place
the chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag and add in half the prepared
sauce. Seal the bag and toss around
until the chicken pieces are coated. Put
the bag in the refrigerator and allow it to marinate for 30-40 minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Once
the chicken is ready, remove the thighs from the bag and place onto the
prepared baking sheet. DO NOT discard
the marinade; you’ll be using it in a minute.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and allow the chicken to cook for 20
minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">While
the chicken is cooking, prepare the glaze.
In a small sauce pan, over a medium-high heat, add in the leftover
marinade with about 4-5 TBSP. of water.
This way, it can boil longer.
Once the marinade has appeared to reduce in size, add in the remainder
of the original marinade and reduce in size again. This will take a few minutes, so be patient
and don’t give up. By the time that it’s
done, it will no longer be runny, but shouldn’t be quite as thick as jam.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When
the chicken is done cooking, flip the thighs over and cook again for about
another 15 minutes. The skin should
appear nice and brown. When the additional
15 minutes are up, remove the chicken, spread on the glaze, and then place the
chicken back in the oven for another 5 minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">After
that, remove the chicken from the oven, sprinkle on the sesame seeds and
chopped parsley, then serve.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Source:<a href="http://bohblog.blogspot.com/2013/12/paleo-sriracha-chicken-thighs.html"> Boh Logging</a></span></div>
</div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-1730710616598533232014-02-11T07:24:00.001-08:002014-02-11T07:24:19.146-08:00Valentines Fun!I'm going to take a break from sharing recipes with you today and instead quickly share a little bit of fun that I've been having so far this month. For some reason I really felt like getting into Valentine's Day this year, which is a little unusual for me, mostly because I've never been a huge fan. So, for the 14 days leading up to the so called "holiday", I've been leaving my husband Jeff, little gifts around the house. The gifts are nothing really elaborate, just small sentiments to show him that I care and am always thinking of him. <br />
<br />
Being an ex language arts teacher I always appreciate a good pun. Therefore, I went out and purchased, or thought up, little gifts that I could create cute romantic puns for. Please keep in mind that there are so many different sayings and wonderful gift ideas that you could create on your own, I'm just sharing mine to help get you started.<br />
<br />
Everyday, since February 1st, I've been leaving one of these small items around the house for Jeff to find.<br />
<br />
Day 1: You're such a "Catch"!<br />
(I forgot to take pictures, but the saying was stuck on a package of goldfish crackers)<br />
<br />
Day 2: I "chew"s you, Valentine!<br />
(Once again, I forgot to take a picture, but it was stuck to Jeff's favorite flavor of gum)<br />
<br />
Day 3: I'm "nuts" about you!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitbIrm9JKD8KRP5gtFBgdsMHMg_mN12diN7veBT4HwaZfbQZP3fdo2Isya3KcMRJM7iy6f7SGGz5AjqfmvQOTdDjyCf3GkhFsjlDSdzGDcmAMhOo6yyCckzGzENZF98ZaFeZL7lX8RV8w/s1600/nuts.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitbIrm9JKD8KRP5gtFBgdsMHMg_mN12diN7veBT4HwaZfbQZP3fdo2Isya3KcMRJM7iy6f7SGGz5AjqfmvQOTdDjyCf3GkhFsjlDSdzGDcmAMhOo6yyCckzGzENZF98ZaFeZL7lX8RV8w/s1600/nuts.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Day 4: Thanks for "stick"ing by my side!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GIlnxsH-nZ7iPRFNDdp4rRw-MDOMTWvCDVL_tCnVGDRkca57gwbagcJTG2D8FVEPg5MbfNnt82mHumKuCtIme1k9Ew5T2Q6IeLMj_2YyxnzCTdx6Z0PvDzpSNkru1a4gLsH0xFDSoX8/s1600/stick.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GIlnxsH-nZ7iPRFNDdp4rRw-MDOMTWvCDVL_tCnVGDRkca57gwbagcJTG2D8FVEPg5MbfNnt82mHumKuCtIme1k9Ew5T2Q6IeLMj_2YyxnzCTdx6Z0PvDzpSNkru1a4gLsH0xFDSoX8/s1600/stick.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Day 5: You have o"Fish"ally stolen my heart!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAmE3ya8Nbq2jp9oVblQSdPJ63ggTQnZd8fIIBCt8US-Cc0dbZdHJQcr6tSxUTcR7MxtyCQssQtakxeIQV5GM39cLdhyphenhyphenaaMCxYAiPHo18p_ZsvEZQRlyUCOAuPkSvIH_8q96BUMFwUC6s/s1600/fish.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAmE3ya8Nbq2jp9oVblQSdPJ63ggTQnZd8fIIBCt8US-Cc0dbZdHJQcr6tSxUTcR7MxtyCQssQtakxeIQV5GM39cLdhyphenhyphenaaMCxYAiPHo18p_ZsvEZQRlyUCOAuPkSvIH_8q96BUMFwUC6s/s1600/fish.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Day 6: You and I are the perfect "mix"!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKCiPKM3MKqE1MJmYqpRMca3MZ4QP_0g6RNDvuA_fD0pqsu7mZbGKZKqRge3A4deH9PcxAbFbLTnPqKghqmssmBcWTSfSuWl1i02Yx5OGiA1HSjhN8SDPUcVJKKS1QhIcT2EvCsrCddxA/s1600/mix.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKCiPKM3MKqE1MJmYqpRMca3MZ4QP_0g6RNDvuA_fD0pqsu7mZbGKZKqRge3A4deH9PcxAbFbLTnPqKghqmssmBcWTSfSuWl1i02Yx5OGiA1HSjhN8SDPUcVJKKS1QhIcT2EvCsrCddxA/s1600/mix.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Day 7: Life would be un"bear"able without you!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYN6zNO3sa-LW8PooQZmddqGQIfCpo1FTBCgk2h52rn0IOr8IJJjcUCchmxC3W7AfmzAOf6nOVpTK7p1U_9TOOv07UW8YeHJ7K9W7fRaos6eRJQU1ZJ7ak6QwiFzin_tyAmAdIp5jfdwk/s1600/bear.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYN6zNO3sa-LW8PooQZmddqGQIfCpo1FTBCgk2h52rn0IOr8IJJjcUCchmxC3W7AfmzAOf6nOVpTK7p1U_9TOOv07UW8YeHJ7K9W7fRaos6eRJQU1ZJ7ak6QwiFzin_tyAmAdIp5jfdwk/s1600/bear.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Day 8: You are one "Hot Tamale"!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy_MT06ebBVwX7fLgQ3zeAznGSGjSkVbw_M6JFehC46NaL8jzIqzSe-NW2omyJ9ddxmYPY6aehzlxIK1kN0LUEw5pXxg_rlx72V1_dl_d9CxM8sS-AD7isavT7h-zDnqdUIie0gjXGdwU/s1600/hot.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy_MT06ebBVwX7fLgQ3zeAznGSGjSkVbw_M6JFehC46NaL8jzIqzSe-NW2omyJ9ddxmYPY6aehzlxIK1kN0LUEw5pXxg_rlx72V1_dl_d9CxM8sS-AD7isavT7h-zDnqdUIie0gjXGdwU/s1600/hot.JPG" height="251" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Day 9: You were "mint" for me!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYM4mJLp8nZ_aJZs5AzVGy0tjYjeJ9BsR3W4gatuSFOAfloSO0yj-6OQ6JgVjNOxQJtaHFN6JtfkLLfPGmkuHf7eqm4JhC4xo64zyXoFdTjidavNOM3XnCaFL89-qrfj16gnOCL4JYWjw/s1600/mint.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYM4mJLp8nZ_aJZs5AzVGy0tjYjeJ9BsR3W4gatuSFOAfloSO0yj-6OQ6JgVjNOxQJtaHFN6JtfkLLfPGmkuHf7eqm4JhC4xo64zyXoFdTjidavNOM3XnCaFL89-qrfj16gnOCL4JYWjw/s1600/mint.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Day 10: "Honey", you are the sweetest!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo37fZR9TapXCgv6Yuzq5QrzSqluh_Ux4r2IUIy9Zc3MFuZLbAlzsCF48BDfxTi_tx4LnGEREJRDezxJjS6Vx-cl6wC9cs2MonfhLGKtLlhio9z8Mg_-NQNCvGts8cocoN-fAUlwFWkJ0/s1600/honey.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo37fZR9TapXCgv6Yuzq5QrzSqluh_Ux4r2IUIy9Zc3MFuZLbAlzsCF48BDfxTi_tx4LnGEREJRDezxJjS6Vx-cl6wC9cs2MonfhLGKtLlhio9z8Mg_-NQNCvGts8cocoN-fAUlwFWkJ0/s1600/honey.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Day 11: I love you to "Pieces"!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8fXT9PMaG3RgTbg-xjUPIxxbymnHU2fT0l2gUehZr5hYkbNYIBFzLOCRW7nwHwOSZ5GrODcDtYIWe2H_e7riRkO3fq309tMpi5Aoth8PBQs4sBi0yhoAXSeRQfFyXUol-jdp_gbUMgmM/s1600/pieces.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8fXT9PMaG3RgTbg-xjUPIxxbymnHU2fT0l2gUehZr5hYkbNYIBFzLOCRW7nwHwOSZ5GrODcDtYIWe2H_e7riRkO3fq309tMpi5Aoth8PBQs4sBi0yhoAXSeRQfFyXUol-jdp_gbUMgmM/s1600/pieces.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Obviously these are not all of the gifts because it only goes to day 11. There are still a few more days to go, but I can't post what I plan to give him quite yet, because I know he'll read this blog entry, and I want the remainder of the days to be a surprise. I promise to update after the 14th. That way, if you want to do something like this in the future, for someone you know, then you'll have some ideas. Most importantly though, feel free to be creative and please share some of your ideas. Like I said, I always enjoy a good pun!<br />
<br />
<br />Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-57767426983997290132014-02-05T15:04:00.002-08:002014-02-05T15:04:51.748-08:00Spinach, Feta, and Egg Frittata<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQwA6OO_Uu7AervPcrnFgljdr_brFZHMobDwVh6q2SRhkd8CxzhUVqUPztmxD4dbAWZD0K5RfPKSMO332bAhLJvR1ml8AnuUZA2gRJeNsTlcekKGsWDmUmnsVEsDX2htY4U7rvFxbtDs/s1600/spinach+frittata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQwA6OO_Uu7AervPcrnFgljdr_brFZHMobDwVh6q2SRhkd8CxzhUVqUPztmxD4dbAWZD0K5RfPKSMO332bAhLJvR1ml8AnuUZA2gRJeNsTlcekKGsWDmUmnsVEsDX2htY4U7rvFxbtDs/s1600/spinach+frittata.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Before I get to today's recipe I just need to take a moment and express how much I absolutely love the phases of determination that I go through. I just wish that I could pin down exactly why I'm so motivated at certain times, and not at others. So far this month, I've been doing really well and sticking to all the challenges that I set for myself.<br />
<br />
At the start of the new year, I created some goals and told you that they'd most likely change a little on a monthly basis; which they have. I still plan to stick to the ones that I originally came up with back in January, but this month I've also decided to add a little more to my workout and eating calendar. And when I say I added a little more, that's in addition to the calendar that I posted at the end of last month. I'm definitely seeing changes too, especially in my inches. It always amazes me the difference that a few pounds can make.<br />
<br />
So here are my additions.....This month, I once again decided to take part in the "No junk food challenge". I've done this challenge once in the past and absolutely loved how I felt after it was over. The challenge basically just outlines specific foods that you are not allowed to consume for 21 days, but seeing that February is a short month, I'm going for 28.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht_jpBqQowBOCLYEWKvlgEuLCxQ1fddZS1kbBq6Pq1R2k9m0eIugxeRZalYGx1tY62iZT2RkF891LbBE06fVFZBLsjE0CbCE9ZdW0ltaZ7xyUHZe47LR2PPbiUgFOpW00YAlLzx6ab-jw/s1600/photo.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht_jpBqQowBOCLYEWKvlgEuLCxQ1fddZS1kbBq6Pq1R2k9m0eIugxeRZalYGx1tY62iZT2RkF891LbBE06fVFZBLsjE0CbCE9ZdW0ltaZ7xyUHZe47LR2PPbiUgFOpW00YAlLzx6ab-jw/s1600/photo.PNG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
Honestly though, I don't find this to be too difficult of a challenge, or at least not for me; mostly because I don't really eat what's on the list anyway, except for peanut butter. I LOVE peanut butter! And Chips. Not potato chips, but I have to admit that I love those mutli-grain scoops, so I'm making them count in place of regular chips. This is going to take a lot of will power, because we always have 2 bags in our pantry due to Jeff loving them too. So far so good. Overall though, I think this is a great challenge because it holds me accountable, which is why I decided to do it again.<br />
<br />
In addition to the food challenge, I've also added a 30 day beach body challenge to my normal workout routine. It's nothing that's incredibly time consuming, just 2 workout activities a day, that are high reps. For example, today's 2 activities were 100 knee highs and 75 Russian twists. That's much better than the other day though, when I had to do 50 burpees and 50 drop down crunches, or leg lifts. Anyone who has ever done a burpee feels my pain and knows exactly how much they suck.<br />
<br />
Ok, enough rambling for now; let's move on to today's recipe. <br />
<br />
I've kind of been eating a lot of eggs lately, well eggs and chicken, mostly for the additional protein that they add to my diet. Whenever I go to the store I have to laugh at myself, and wonder what the cashier must think. This is mostly because I always have at least 4 cartons of 18 eggs, if not more, in my basket whenever I go to check out. With all these eggs I'm buying, I'm always trying to think of new or different things to make with them. This time I decided to make a frittata. I've actually heard of them numerous times before now, but never attempted to make one. It was much easier than I thought it would be and quick too. The thing I like best is the idea that not only is it a healthy and high protein meal, but there are also so many different ingredients that you could add and subtract. Even the leftovers are delicious! I even went out to the store and bought some bell peppers today, so that I could make another one for later this week.<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Spinach, Feta, and Egg Frittata<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mRDRuTmg1N0RBTDQ/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
whole eggs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">8
large egg whites<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
½ links of Al Fresco Country Style Chicken Sausage (cooked and broken into
pieces)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dash
of garlic powder (optional)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dash
of cayenne red pepper (optional)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
tsp. olive oil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3-4
TBSP. red onion, chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
cups fresh baby spinach, chopped (measure before chopping)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
oz. crumbled feta cheese<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
cup parmesan cheese, grated<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Salt
and pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and egg whites. Add in the garlic powder, cayenne pepper,
baby spinach, chicken sausage, feta, parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Mix together until combined.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a medium size skillet, set over a medium heat, add the olive oil. Allow the skillet to heat for about a minute
and then add in the chopped onion. Cook
the onion until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
When done, add the onion to the egg mixture.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Spray
the skillet with a little non-stick cooking spray and pour the egg mixture into
the prepared skillet. Allow the egg
mixture to cook for around 5 minutes.
Here’s where it gets a little tricky….Hold a plate directly over the pan,
so that it’s touching it, and flip the frittata onto the plate. After that, slide the frittata back into the
pan, so that the other side can cook.
This side might not take as long to cook, so just keep an eye on it. Serve immediately.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Inspired by and adapted from <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2008/11/lighter-spinach-frittata-235-pts.html">Skinny Taste</a></span></div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-45342536170606401982014-02-04T16:40:00.001-08:002014-02-05T08:41:12.561-08:00Mexican Pizza with a Cauliflower Crust<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUypBa0aPDkAsIZo9APzKV0s1LiPRMbO6SOUmtlSxMer2480Pt1GziuuNgEjX0ToEg4iDZiG0LDjvcQpq6j25e-n7IM8e2aMds2OTAItdVbLR3H8FaIllAXUTqDf4N7QBGtokxjcTZSI/s1600/mexican+pizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUypBa0aPDkAsIZo9APzKV0s1LiPRMbO6SOUmtlSxMer2480Pt1GziuuNgEjX0ToEg4iDZiG0LDjvcQpq6j25e-n7IM8e2aMds2OTAItdVbLR3H8FaIllAXUTqDf4N7QBGtokxjcTZSI/s1600/mexican+pizza.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I know I've said in the past that I'm not really fan of pizza, and that I can't even remember the last time I ordered it from a restaurant, and all that's true. Still, I have to admit that I've been kind of curious about, and have been really wanting to make a cauliflower pizza crust. Its just that I've been seeing so many recipes on Pinterest for cauliflower pizza crusts, breadsticks, calzones, etc. and I've ended up pinning a bunch of different versions due to the fact that each one looks absolutely scrumptious!<br />
<br />
Now that I've actually made it, let me just tell you that my predictions were 100% correct. This pizza crust was so incredibly delicious!<br />
<br />
The reason I always tend to avoid pizza is because of all the empty carbohydrates that are found in the crust. However, by choosing to make the pizzas myself and substituting cauliflower for the crust, instead of using traditional flour, I knew that it would be healthier and was therefore willing to eat it.<br />
<br />
This recipe actually makes 2 small, round pizzas. Each pizza, depending on how much cheese you put on it, is between 450-500 calories. And that's for the whole pizza, which is very filling! Keeping that in mind, think of how many calories are in an average Lean Cuisine meal, and that's something that comes frozen. This pizza is completely fresh. Not only that, but there are only about 25 grams of carbohydrates and around 47 grams of protein. Once again, that's in the whole pizza, and you don't have to eat it all at once, unless of course you want to!<br />
<br />
It's always nice when you can make a comfort food healthy!<br />
<br />
<i>Sorry that the pictures of this meal may not be my best, but I promise that it's delicious!</i><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Mexican Pizza with a Cauliflower
Crust<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mSS1lVUE5bGlpdkU/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">For the Crust:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">1 head of cauliflower<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">¼ - ½ cup reduced fat shredded
cheddar cheese<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">1 egg, lightly beaten<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">¼ tsp. salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">¼ tsp. black pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">½ - 1 tsp. crushed red pepper
flakes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">For the Sauce:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">1 15 oz. can, no salt added tomato
sauce<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">1 package hot and spicy taco
seasoning (Old El Paso)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">¼ - ½ tsp. cumin<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">For the Pizza:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">½ cup fat free refried beans<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">1 cup reduced fat shredded
cheddar cheese, divided<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Grilled chicken pieces (You don’t
have to, but I seasoned mine with a little chili powder, cumin, and cayenne
pepper) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Prepared sauce<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Optional Toppings:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Black Olives<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Green Onions<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Red or Green Bell Peppers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Tomatoes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">For the Crust:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Place a rack in the middle of the
oven and preheat it to 450 degrees. Line
a baking sheet with parchment paper, drizzle on and spread out a little olive
oil, and then set aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Rice the cauliflower florets in a
food processor, make sure to not puree it. If you are unsure how
this is done, follow this link for a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=how%20to%20rice%20cauliflower&sm=1">video</a>.
Once the cauliflower has been riced, transfer to a microwave safe dish
and microwave on high for about 8 minutes, or until cooked. Once done, you will need to drain all the
excess water out of the cauliflower. I
did this by placing paper towel in a colander, dumping in the cauliflower, and
pressing down. Be careful though,
because the cauliflower is very hot. I
ended up going through quite a few pieces of paper towel, due to the fact that <b>it’s very important</b> to get out all the
water, otherwise your crust is going to be soggy instead of crispy. And let’s be honest…..who likes a soggy pizza
crust?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">After the cauliflower has been
drained of all the water and appears dry, place it in a bowl. Add in the egg, cheese, salt, pepper, and
crushed red pepper. Mix well. I used my clean hands to just knead it all
together and it worked well. Once it’s
been combined, break the “dough” into two pieces and work it into small round
circles on the prepared baking sheet, by pressing it down, and shaping it with
your hands. After my pizza crust was
shaped and ready, I ended up placing a paper towel over the top of each
prepared circle, just to absorb some of the extra liquid. After that, place the pan in the oven for
exactly 10 minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9tIi8oG7DSmYw2e1p7C94uK1JaiUo1QCWIQeCWTjLh_lci0Vvkg4Mi47p21duOhyxx92aQgyIPFo_m8CHn8wnX2HOTYPCuZmwJMDWHlhagxoYli0n8n2CUYJQdE_j2vbT61C60u-Rwdw/s1600/IMG_4355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9tIi8oG7DSmYw2e1p7C94uK1JaiUo1QCWIQeCWTjLh_lci0Vvkg4Mi47p21duOhyxx92aQgyIPFo_m8CHn8wnX2HOTYPCuZmwJMDWHlhagxoYli0n8n2CUYJQdE_j2vbT61C60u-Rwdw/s1600/IMG_4355.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">While the pizza is cooking,
prepare the sauce.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">For the Sauce:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">In a microwave safe bowl, pour in
the can of tomato sauce. After that, add
in the packet of taco seasoning and the cumin; then stir around until
combined. Microwave the sauce until just
warm to the touch. This should take 45
seconds to a minute. Set aside. (You
will definitely have leftover sauce, but it’s great to dip things in, and you
can store it in the fridge)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Hint: You might want to warm up the refried beans
as well, to make them easier to spread.</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">To Assemble:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Once the 10 minutes is up and the
crust is done, remove the pan from the oven. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQWH2zfUSz7ZIOEt8zaUoBXf4A9GzMNDhwu8ie-DvUqh6L2nvMVIjMOeYL0LHvZOLMZoLVJKcTixbUUsnmT9QEfZ8FngIVad_43h6XxBbE4wtAfa-5TsQ-pnBbmEbt1vQOn6XB7hiawV0/s1600/IMG_4358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQWH2zfUSz7ZIOEt8zaUoBXf4A9GzMNDhwu8ie-DvUqh6L2nvMVIjMOeYL0LHvZOLMZoLVJKcTixbUUsnmT9QEfZ8FngIVad_43h6XxBbE4wtAfa-5TsQ-pnBbmEbt1vQOn6XB7hiawV0/s1600/IMG_4358.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Now, spread on some of the refried beans (if you don’t use them all, it’s
ok). After that, top the beans with some
of the sauce, followed by pieces of chicken and then the cheese. Feel free to add on any additional toppings
as well, after all, it’s your pizza.
Once the pizza(s) are assembled, place the pan back into the oven and
let cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted to your
liking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Remove the pan from the oven and let
cool for about 5 minutes. After that, transfer
the pizza(s) to a plate and enjoy!</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">Source: Crust adapted from <a href="http://www.theironyou.com/2013/07/cauliflower-crust-calzone.html">The Iron You</a></span></div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-74041767761689861722014-02-02T05:28:00.002-08:002014-02-02T05:28:50.011-08:00Beer Cheese Dip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Wuv93hzeRiBR-0k6MKRS1dXn33ppg6aSWjFlKKqEPMwu_u9F2yoxFCYo3K6vkQyNG_zE8n20Qwz5RlSO5MMrQ7O5dl-ty1EdeV5udaRcscQmnitddxc2Xe3Hcy0wjMPTr3Yfv-GmfNk/s1600/beer+cheese+dip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Wuv93hzeRiBR-0k6MKRS1dXn33ppg6aSWjFlKKqEPMwu_u9F2yoxFCYo3K6vkQyNG_zE8n20Qwz5RlSO5MMrQ7O5dl-ty1EdeV5udaRcscQmnitddxc2Xe3Hcy0wjMPTr3Yfv-GmfNk/s1600/beer+cheese+dip.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Super Bowl Sunday is officially here, and it's never too late to run out and get some last minute ingredients for those tasty party snacks. For those of you having people over, I know exactly how it goes, because this is the first Super Bowl in the past few years, that we've not thrown a party. To be honest, I'm kind of excited about it, although I also find it to be bittersweet. I really do enjoy having friends over because it's always a good time, but with being out of town this week, and then coming home to make a cake, I'm pretty beat and am actually looking forward to a quiet and relaxing Sunday.<br />
<br />
However, if I were hosting a party, I'd definitely be making this addicting and delicious beer cheese dip. Not only is it a quick and easy recipe to follow, but it's also flavorful and is guaranteed to be a hit. This dip went very quickly when I originally made it back in December (for our ugly sweater Christmas party) and I even ended up passing out the recipe to a few friends.<br />
<br />
It goes great with mini pretzels, but you could also dip chips in it as well, or spread it on crackers.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Beer Cheese Dip<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Printer-Friendly
Version<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="display: none; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-hide: all;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="display: none; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-hide: all;">ngredients:ndly Version<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4-8
oz. packages cream cheese, softened (I used 1/3 less fat and it was still
delicious)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2/3
cup beer (I used Yuengling)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
envelopes Hidden Valley Original Ranch packets<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4
cups shredded cheddar cheese<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">To
Dip:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Pretzels<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Crackers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Chips<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese, beer, and ranch packets until
smooth and creamy in appearance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">After
that, stir in the cheese. I turned the
hand held mixer to a lower speed and combined it that way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">You
could serve the dip right away, but its best if you cover the bowl and
refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours. That
way the flavors have time to combine.
You could also make this dip a day or so ahead of time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6hGhk7Te81qvD73nYwisoBqRbXhd-4g2oBEPz152QE5148h5_VZeuRqvA_DssTcMWa9tiy7vp_RCgvqo8VWwHIIMeJfps3p6NjSGrj-6Z5RqnO9q3xfGr1ZuBdBTPhyNkgLzqoOvLFEM/s1600/IMG_3990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6hGhk7Te81qvD73nYwisoBqRbXhd-4g2oBEPz152QE5148h5_VZeuRqvA_DssTcMWa9tiy7vp_RCgvqo8VWwHIIMeJfps3p6NjSGrj-6Z5RqnO9q3xfGr1ZuBdBTPhyNkgLzqoOvLFEM/s1600/IMG_3990.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Source: </span><a href="http://www.ladybehindthecurtain.com/beer-dip/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Lady Behind the Curtain</a></div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-29677187837709653872014-01-27T15:34:00.000-08:002014-01-27T15:34:01.955-08:00Slow Cooked Brown Sugar Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYhTYMukOY-Q7_-_FPv2HLqXTog5tyMr4H9p4YspJeFZLgg4jh_oY-wjXt9_sADPuvfMNtkk5Jft5yc83nI44bjOx2mRirk33vYurS-nFZ8sZCoE7VeXILyXTzCK5SR56Fp8e-08Udnc/s1600/Slow+cooked+pork+tenderloin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYhTYMukOY-Q7_-_FPv2HLqXTog5tyMr4H9p4YspJeFZLgg4jh_oY-wjXt9_sADPuvfMNtkk5Jft5yc83nI44bjOx2mRirk33vYurS-nFZ8sZCoE7VeXILyXTzCK5SR56Fp8e-08Udnc/s1600/Slow+cooked+pork+tenderloin.jpg" height="448" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
Once again, I've been keeping myself busy. This time, I spent the weekend painting our upstairs guest bathroom, which meant that I didn't have a lot of time to cook. For me, this is just one reason I think that crock pot meals are the absolute best! I love that all you have to do is toss the ingredients into the pot and then walk away to do other things, but you'll still always end up with a great meal!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I was excited too, to finally use my crock pot again; mostly because I just discovered these easy clean up liners. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmcCAQB0Wdf1lIq_2fVoLW1gzDNJbhlxCxkVZPxxXwCGyGFlfTp4pMJQt1nWwLe4EBvVQ1XzRhutNEQDmUWYxL2Ai9BZBS6Aj4dkZYcTyEZtAlVHLSH8YnODmSIUSdUv5IRNSVw1yten0/s1600/IMG_4335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmcCAQB0Wdf1lIq_2fVoLW1gzDNJbhlxCxkVZPxxXwCGyGFlfTp4pMJQt1nWwLe4EBvVQ1XzRhutNEQDmUWYxL2Ai9BZBS6Aj4dkZYcTyEZtAlVHLSH8YnODmSIUSdUv5IRNSVw1yten0/s1600/IMG_4335.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
How did I never know that such a product existed until now? The liners definitely would have saved me a lot of time and energy scraping the sides of my pot to get it clean. They really did make cleaning up a snap. I highly recommend picking up a pack or two for yourself!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Now, back to the recipe. This pork tenderloin is so easy to prepare and comes out both sweet and delicious. By the time the pork's finished cooking, the meat's so tender that it literally just falls apart with your fork; meaning no knife is needed to eat it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Slow Cooked Brown Sugar Balsamic
Glazed Pork Tenderloin</span></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mVU9ocnBJWW93NmM/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
lb. pork tenderloin<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
tsp. rosemary<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">½
tsp. salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
tsp. pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
garlic clove, minced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">½
cup water<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">½
cup light brown sugar (could use splenda brown sugar)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
TBSP. cornstarch<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
cup Balsamic Vinegar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">½
cup water<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
TBSP. reduced sodium soy sauce<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a small dish, mix together the seasonings to form a rub; rosemary, salt,
pepper, and garlic.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Prepare
the slow cooker by placing in the liner, or spraying the sides with a non-stick
cooking spray. Add in ½ cup of water.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Rub
the spices over the pork tenderloin, and place it in the slow cooker with the ½ cup
of water. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or
on high for 3-5. (I cooked mine for a little over 4 hours and it was perfect)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">About
an hour before the tenderloin is done cooking, prepare the glaze.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a small sauce pan set over a medium heat, combine the sugar, cornstarch,
vinegar, water, and soy sauce. Let heat
up until the ingredients are well combined and the sauce begins to
thicken. DO NOT let it boil; reduce the
heat if needed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Once
the sauce thickens, brush it over the tenderloin 2-3 times during the last hour
of cooking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When
the tenderloin is done, place it on a baking sheet, spread on a little more
glaze and place it in the oven, set to broil.
This will help give the glaze that caramelized texture. Keep an eye on the tenderloin during this
process; it may take 3-5 minutes. When it’s
done, place the pork on a serving tray and pour over the remainder of the
glaze.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Source:<a href="http://laurassweetspot.com/2013/06/12/crockpot-brown-sugar-balsamic-glazed-pork-tenderloin/"> Laura's Sweet Spot</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I almost forgot that I have one more thing to add to today's post......So I decided today that I'm going to drive down to Disney World to visit my sister Shannon for a few days before she gets back on her cruise ship. Before I go though, I wanted to share with you all the workout calendar I created for February. I'm sorry that January's calendar never made it up, but feel free to join me this upcoming month!</div>
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Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-38752548764759043252014-01-22T14:52:00.001-08:002014-01-22T14:52:47.675-08:00Stuffed Spinach and Mozzarella Chicken<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSd1xTG-4QO8Mss2bbPWRoSeNN04NKm20dcgmnIWPnx74oZ6ztARPkXYX7UUbu9b1vgUeQDxBx5upO2U28o5hdGcp5zqaFcKJqeNgoif7GUxxFlMmPMZAc4U8WKxNfq6FPTDEbjEcMs0/s1600/stuffed+spinach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSd1xTG-4QO8Mss2bbPWRoSeNN04NKm20dcgmnIWPnx74oZ6ztARPkXYX7UUbu9b1vgUeQDxBx5upO2U28o5hdGcp5zqaFcKJqeNgoif7GUxxFlMmPMZAc4U8WKxNfq6FPTDEbjEcMs0/s1600/stuffed+spinach.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Well,
it's official! I'm finally able to run
outdoors again!!! (And yes, that
statement, without a doubt, earns those 3 exclamation points; I'm that excited
about it!)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For
me, it's been many agonizing months off.
If you're a runner yourself, you most likely get where I'm coming
from. However, I'm sure that some of you
non-runners might be thinking, 'I don't get it, what's the big deal?' So here it is.....when I go for a run, that's
my way to release stress or just escape from everything around me, at least for
a little while. And when I can actually
go outside and run (meaning not on the treadmill where people can still get hold of me), I know that it's just me, my music, and the road, and I love that
uninterrupted alone time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Being
able to get back to my routine means that I now have two things working for me
again when it comes to the "health" area of my life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1.
I'm eating healthy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2. I'm able to workout like I want to and am feeling
good<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Is
it just me, or does anyone else believe that there's something about being able
to workout that makes you want to stick to eating healthy? I know that many of my friends feel the same
way, but does anyone else? If so, here's
a quick and healthy recipe that's high in protein and low in carbs. The best part is, that it's also tasty and
delicious! Feel free to leave out the
Italian bread crumbs if you want to (I left them off my pieces of chicken, but
put them on Jeff's).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Without
the bread crumbs, the nutrition looks something like this: 1 serving=1 piece<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Cal:
140 carbs: 4 grams fat: 5 grams
pro: 16 grams<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Wz3GEzh1kQD7D9Kl4vc71t5tSQ-sCK-YfCajp9hO2NAAf7v8-cp69zLFiaOEXPvrRk-Oqt3ONtk3ycoUMeIeT3lXo3A1491bnsHDAzgXnHq3sWN_OV8OqnJguCA0pWYJl0u81ptsDLU/s1600/IMG_4287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Wz3GEzh1kQD7D9Kl4vc71t5tSQ-sCK-YfCajp9hO2NAAf7v8-cp69zLFiaOEXPvrRk-Oqt3ONtk3ycoUMeIeT3lXo3A1491bnsHDAzgXnHq3sWN_OV8OqnJguCA0pWYJl0u81ptsDLU/s1600/IMG_4287.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Stuffed Spinach and Mozzarella
Chicken<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1J-i5fYkE2daivN5GNPS56owLXX06UU36Vn2xRTN_LRQ/edit">Printer-Friendly Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3
large boneless skinless chicken breasts (butterflied to make 6 pieces)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
cup Italian style bread crumbs (optional)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">6
TBSP. grated Parmesan cheese, divided<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4-5
oz. fresh baby spinach<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1
garlic clove, minced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2-3
tsp. olive oil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">½
cup part-skim Ricotta cheese<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2
egg whites, beaten<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Mozzarella
cheese, shredded (just a little on each piece, I used about 1/2 a cup total)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Marinara
sauce<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Fresh
basil, for garnish<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Preheat
the oven to 450 degrees and spray the bottom of a baking dish with a nonstick
cooking spray; set aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For
the Chicken:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Butterfly the 3 original large pieces of chicken so
that you’re now left with 6 thinner pieces.
After that, pound the pieces flatter, so that the surface area expands
some more. Place the bread crumbs and 3
TBSP. of Parmesan cheese into a shallow dish; set aside. In another shallow dish, whisk together the
egg whites.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For
the Filling: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Chop the spinach into small pieces and place into a
skillet with the olive oil and the garlic.
Sauté the ingredients together, over a medium heat, until the spinach
leaves begin to wilt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In a small bowl, add the ricotta cheese, the
remaining Parmesan cheese, and the prepared spinach. Now, stir the ingredients around until well
combined. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">To
Prepare the Chicken:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Place a piece of chicken onto a flat work surface
and add on a spoonful of the ricotta mixture.
Make sure to place it in the center of the chicken piece. After that step is complete, roll up the
chicken so that the edges meet and form a seam.
(A toothpick might be helpful to keep the chicken closed) Now, dip the chicken in the egg whites and
then roll in the bread crumbs.
(Remember, this step is optional.
If you would rather not have the bread crumbs, just skip this
step.) Once the chicken roll is ready,
place it into the prepared baking dish and repeat the process with the
remaining pieces. Bake for 25 minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Once the chicken is done baking, meaning that it
looks a little brown on the top, and white in the middle, it’s time to remove
the dish from the oven. Add on some
marinara sauce and a little mozzarella cheese and then place back into the oven
for another 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted. Once ready, remove from the oven and garnish
with a little basil. Enjoy!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Source: Adapted from<a href="http://pinchofyum.com/baked-mozzarella-chicken-rolls"> Pinch of Yum</a>!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-73159450723115803722014-01-17T09:21:00.004-08:002014-01-17T09:21:58.791-08:00The Best of Breakfast: Pancake Egg Sandwich<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb67DRXlXNlaQmEtEPHQuKXoXr6Y7AdJirQSBMDVKaw5JiJ1eMfj9pfJGIQ0rX1ojR4bxtKY5_VHt8KKcw64whOSSiluzgT4ywnIKf-JC95d3rMaSWXxGMs8UVNDL748Z3935bYB6HfZc/s1600/pancake+egg+sandwich.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb67DRXlXNlaQmEtEPHQuKXoXr6Y7AdJirQSBMDVKaw5JiJ1eMfj9pfJGIQ0rX1ojR4bxtKY5_VHt8KKcw64whOSSiluzgT4ywnIKf-JC95d3rMaSWXxGMs8UVNDL748Z3935bYB6HfZc/s1600/pancake+egg+sandwich.jpg" height="396" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This post may be a little overdue, but it's definitely worth me going back to. I actually made this recipe for breakfast over the holidays, to serve to my husband and in-laws. I'd have to say that it was definitely a hit and something I can easily see myself making again; probably very soon. That way, Jeff can have a decent breakfast during the hectic work week. <br />
<br />
You see, I typically don't get a chance to cook breakfast a lot, and Jeff usually just ends up having Pop Tarts. The reason for this is because I go to the gym every morning at 5:20, before Jeff gets up, and then he heads into work before I'm home. We seem to just miss one another on the weekdays. That's really why I want to make something that Jeff can heat up on his own, and I feel that these breakfast sandwiches would be the perfect, make-ahead and freeze meal. Once I know for sure how they turn out when frozen, and how long to microwave them, I'll update the post. Until then, serve fresh and enjoy!<br />
<br />
<em>(Hint: Next time, I was going to try to add on a slice or two of Canadian Bacon for a little more protein. You can never have enough protein!)</em><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">The Best of Breakfast: Pancake Egg
Sandwich</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mRzdfemJGNW8tWTQ/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For
Pancakes:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
½ cups self-rising flour</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Dash
of salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
cups skim milk</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
eggs</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
cup vegetable/canola oil, or healthy substitute</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Butter
for skillet</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For
Eggs:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">8
large eggs, or substitute egg whites for healthier version (use more eggs)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1
TBSP. skim milk</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">4-5
crumbled cooked sausage patties (I use turkey sausage)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
tsp. black pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Dash
of salt</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For
Assembly:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Canadian
Bacon/Bacon</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">American
cheese slices</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Maple
syrup</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For
the Pancakes:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Combine
the milk, oil, and eggs in a small bowl.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span><i style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I always whisk the eggs together
first, and then mix in the other ingredients.</i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with
the flour and mix together.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">It may
appear a little lumpy, which is fine.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Heat
a nonstick griddle over medium heat, for a few 4-5 minutes.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Once ready, pour ¼ cup of batter (I used my ¼
cup measuring cup) onto the prepared griddle and let cook.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The bottoms of the pancakes should cook in
about 2 minutes time but keep an eye on the bubbles that appear, that will help
you monitor.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Once ready, flip the
pancake over and let the other side cook.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When the pancakes are done cooking, place them on a plate and cover with
aluminum foil to help keep them warm until serving (or place them in an oven,
preheated to 200 degrees)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For
the Eggs:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a medium bowl, crack and add the eggs.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Now, whisk the eggs together until the whites and yolk are well combined.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Add in the milk, crumbled sausage patties,
black pepper, and dash of salt.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Whisk the
ingredients around a little more until everything is combined.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Spray
a large, non-stick skillet with cooking spray (such as PAM) and preheat it over
a medium heat.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Once ready, pour in the
egg mixture.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Scramble together until the
eggs are cooked through.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">To
Assemble:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Place
a slice of cheese on top of a pancake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
you plan to add Canadian bacon or regular bacon, add it now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next, add on some of the scrambled
egg/sausage mixture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you would like,
feel free to add on another piece of cheese.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Top with a pancake and then add on some maple syrup.</span><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">We stuck the prepared sandwich in
the microwave for about 15 seconds, just long enough to help the cheese melt a
little.</span></i><br />
<br />
Source: Slightly adapted from <a href="http://www.pauladeen.com/recipes/recipe_view/sausage_pancake_egg_sandwich/">Paula Deen</a><br />
<br />Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-43005919896116564842014-01-16T15:05:00.002-08:002014-01-16T15:21:31.149-08:00Samoa Girl Scout Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-HsFHdY9IlAyqtj0jlryUGcbf9-C2pBevlKtPp5yDMrmoznsqBjvvwbtbPaMUKqPaNqZ3gYpVLTE5y4CTT_BrhimhM8Teo-E7lsWvcwtURyxIhIkJSeJpSVkncAjvQiQc14LyX-AR9IM/s1600/samoa+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-HsFHdY9IlAyqtj0jlryUGcbf9-C2pBevlKtPp5yDMrmoznsqBjvvwbtbPaMUKqPaNqZ3gYpVLTE5y4CTT_BrhimhM8Teo-E7lsWvcwtURyxIhIkJSeJpSVkncAjvQiQc14LyX-AR9IM/s1600/samoa+cookies.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Oh my gosh, it's already that time of year again! Time for the Girl Scouts to come out, or recruit their parents, to start selling those delicious little cookies that, I swear, are designed to ruin people's diets. I usually end up buying a couple of boxes myself, and then give them to my husband; but this year I am no longer at school and therefore don't have any little girls asking me. Jeff however, has some recruited parents working with him, so he ended up calling me the other day to see if I wanted any boxes. Right away, my stomach said, "Yes!!!" but my will power kicked in and I ended up telling him "no."<br />
<br />
However, that evening, while Jeff was at bowling, his team members issued me a challenge. They wanted to see if I could bake up a batch of Samoa Girl Scout cookies that tasted just as good, if not better than, the actual boxes they buy. Now, as most of you know, I'm always up for a good challenge, therefore I think it goes without saying that I gladly accepted. Sadly, I didn't get to eat any of the cookies myself (completely my choice), but I did end up hearing that they were delicious. If you choose to make a batch for yourself, you can be the judge. <br />
<br />
These cookies were definitely fun to make once, and definitely worth it, but are slightly time consuming. <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLKC-hOwd9oNXn5TBkdtFfOW_UNAvg-TobDEsgfOZ6amwJo9-X1PIazHknV1QbHP23GnMLnWpMBBmZrJ-RPrsEtvaehNxiM-gfP1s1QIh3ztVmgQBuvd1ESMZ1Fv7YvUzptmbmgb2sdi8/s1600/IMG_4268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLKC-hOwd9oNXn5TBkdtFfOW_UNAvg-TobDEsgfOZ6amwJo9-X1PIazHknV1QbHP23GnMLnWpMBBmZrJ-RPrsEtvaehNxiM-gfP1s1QIh3ztVmgQBuvd1ESMZ1Fv7YvUzptmbmgb2sdi8/s1600/IMG_4268.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>(</i><i>Just to clarify.....We still support the Girl Scouts and Jeff actually purchased a few boxes from someone he works with)</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Samoa Girl Scout Cookies</span></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5maW80T0Q1QnJMQnc/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Makes
about 3 ½ dozen<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Shortbread
Cookie:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1
cup butter (2 sticks), softened<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">½
cup sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
cups all-purpose flour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
tsp. baking powder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">½
tsp. salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
TBSP. milk (if needed)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">½
tsp. vanilla extract<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Topping:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">3
cups shredded coconut (toasted)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">13-14
oz. good quality caramel chews<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">3
TBSP. milk<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1/8
tsp. salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">10
oz. dark chocolate chips (I like using Hersey’s)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Now,
in the bowl of a stand mixer, fitted with the whisk attachment, beat together
the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Change the mixer to a lower speed and pour in the flour. After a few seconds add in the vanilla, and
milk (but only as needed) until a dough begins to form. The dough should come together in a ball all
on its own. If you added too much milk,
just add a little more flour. The dough
should not feel sticky.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Use
your hands and divide the dough into 2 sections. Roll each section into a ball and cover with
plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30
minutes. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Preheat
the oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or a
silicone baking mat.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Once
ready, remove the dough from the refrigerator and take off the plastic
wrap. Next, sandwich the dough between
two pieces of parchment paper and roll out until it’s about ¼ inches thick. Cut the dough using a donut cutter, or two
different sized round cookie cutters.
Place the prepared cookies onto the cookie sheet and bake for 10-12
minutes, or just until the bottoms begin to turn a light golden brown. While one or two batches are baking, continue
to cut more cookies from the dough, </span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">re-rolling</span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> as needed.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Once
the cookies are done baking, let them cool for about a minute on the baking sheet
and then transfer them to a wire rack where they will cool completely.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Topping:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">To
toast the coconut:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Place
the coconut into a large skillet set over a low-medium heat and stir
occasionally. Once the coconut pieces
start to turn a little brown you will want to make sure that you continue to
stir constantly, as the pieces will toast very quickly. Once the coconut looks browned, remove from
the heat, and pour into a bowl; set aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For
the caramel:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Place
the caramel pieces into a microwave safe bowl with the milk and salt. Cook for 3-4 minutes, making sure to stop and
stir around as needed and to help the caramel melt. Once the caramel has melted, fold in the
toasted coconut using a large spoon or spatula.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">To
assemble the cookies:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Using
a small knife, or spatula, evenly spread the coconut topping over the cooled
cookies. <b><i>Helpful Hint:</i></b><i> If the caramel begins to harden and makes
it too difficult to spread onto the cookies, just place the bowl back into the microwave
for 10-20 seconds and it will soften it back up.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">While
the topping on the cookies hardens, melt the chocolate. I chose to melt mine in a double broiler, on
the stove top, but you could always melt it in the microwave. The nice thing about the double broiler is
that the heat from the water (even though I turned the stove off), keep the chocolate
soft the whole time. This meant that I </span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">didn't</span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> have to keep melting it as I worked.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Once
ready, dip the base of the cookie into the chocolate and set aside on a piece
of parchment paper to cool. After all
the cookies have been dipped and set aside, pour the remaining chocolate into a
piping bag, or Ziplock bag, with the corner cut off, and drizzle the chocolate
over the tops of the cookies. Let cool
until the chocolate hardens. I placed
mine in the fridge to speed up this process.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Eat
when ready, or store in an airtight container for later consumption. Enjoy!</span><i style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-UBR0bIup6P7oPWMc6T720cizp3aF5eJteYkBmjTNFzChZC1Hroh7tdpA5Pxmy03sur0p_wyRIK4uWO3ZTsYQm_QOnMFQbN0qQT_7vynV6xLCTxsm71TAaEfLChBqFhH3yrkqyiFqukQ/s1600/IMG_4273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-UBR0bIup6P7oPWMc6T720cizp3aF5eJteYkBmjTNFzChZC1Hroh7tdpA5Pxmy03sur0p_wyRIK4uWO3ZTsYQm_QOnMFQbN0qQT_7vynV6xLCTxsm71TAaEfLChBqFhH3yrkqyiFqukQ/s1600/IMG_4273.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Source: <a href="http://amandascookin.com/2008/11/girl-scout-cookie-recipe-somoas.html">Amanda's Cookin'</a></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-23449084941308592662014-01-13T16:27:00.005-08:002014-01-13T16:27:45.372-08:00Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups and Birthdays!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2HdDlv2EYTopanPnKNR6qj2m8ToiomU74o1rqXh8XM9ROZbjQ92Afj6E-_cxMEiLVj8GIHQRTBkqOA9FOr5P-4yGNicWXRb9KtKLhmPWN7fxq5ky1EwcyY6Rwcn7K2mbqTCWCYe7262U/s1600/buffalo+wonton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2HdDlv2EYTopanPnKNR6qj2m8ToiomU74o1rqXh8XM9ROZbjQ92Afj6E-_cxMEiLVj8GIHQRTBkqOA9FOr5P-4yGNicWXRb9KtKLhmPWN7fxq5ky1EwcyY6Rwcn7K2mbqTCWCYe7262U/s640/buffalo+wonton.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Please ignore the x-mas napkin)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I can't believe it's already a new week again, what happened to the weekend? I'm not complaining though, because I honestly like Monday's and this isn't any ordinary Monday either. It's January 13th, which means it's my older sister Shannon's birthday! "Happy Birthday Shanny!" <br />
<br />
I really wish I could be with her to help celebrate; but she's been sailing around Hawaii and French Polynesia for the past 30 days (If I sound jealous, I am, which is why I wish I could be there too to help celebrate). Today also happens to be my friend Brad's birthday, "Happy Birthday Brad!" <br />
<br />
On that note, birthdays seem to be popping up everywhere; January is a busy month! I actually made two birthday cakes over the weekend, for two different parties that were going on.<br />
<br />
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<br />
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<br />
In addition to baking birthday cakes, I also prepared some buffalo chicken wonton cups to take as a little appetizer to yet another birthday party. These personalized little cups are always a huge hit and super easy to make! Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">Buffalo Chicken Wonton Cups</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mbXltT096aDgxOUE/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Makes
about 18 cups</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
large cans chunk chicken</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
blocks 1/3 less fat cream cheese</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">3
TBSP. Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">3
cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">½
- 1 cup Franks Red Hot Sauce</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1
package wonton shells</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Preheat
oven to 375 degrees and spray a muffin tin with a nonstick cooking spray; set
aside.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a large skillet, over a medium heat, add in the chunk chicken and breaking
apart into bite size pieces and stirring around.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Continue to cook until just warm, 2-4 minutes.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Add in the blocks of cream cheese and stir
around, with the chicken, until melted and mixed together.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When ready, pour in the ranch dressing, Frank’s
Red Hot sauce, and 1 ½ cups of the cheese.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Stir those ingredients around until the cheese is melted and everything
is nicely combined.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">To
assemble:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Begin
by placing a wonton shell into the bottom of each well of the muffin tin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After that, add on about a TBSP. of the
chicken mixture and top with a little cheese.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Next, place over the chicken and cheese another wonton shell, making
sure to press it down around the filling (almost so that it looks like a piece
of ravioli).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now, place on top of the
wonton another TBSP. of the buffalo chicken mixture and then sprinkle on some
more cheese.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When
ready, place the tin into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the
edges of the wonton wrappers start to turn a nice brownish color.</span><br />
<br />
<em style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Optional
Garnish Ideas</em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Blue
Cheese or Feta crumbles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">A
slice of celery</span><br />
<br />Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-61963636763137840072014-01-11T07:07:00.000-08:002014-01-11T10:23:14.647-08:00Zucchini Lasagna<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTq-GvI5PMJ7bavsstSRM6-NXyl4I01XRLr7wIsGxwmsRnd2MS7ot3uTRw4jJUr54JPlvdBdxhGdc4yHVk3_teqUveTwVDGK1HTwZQ6FT_3wmlJccsnTs98mBD5mBkL3HuBP7CVEPpCuY/s1600/zucchini+lasagna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTq-GvI5PMJ7bavsstSRM6-NXyl4I01XRLr7wIsGxwmsRnd2MS7ot3uTRw4jJUr54JPlvdBdxhGdc4yHVk3_teqUveTwVDGK1HTwZQ6FT_3wmlJccsnTs98mBD5mBkL3HuBP7CVEPpCuY/s1600/zucchini+lasagna.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_928292598"></span><span id="goog_928292599"><br /></span>
I can't think of anything better to be doing right now than sitting here in my living room, with a warm cup of real Irish coffee (hey, it's Saturday and I've been good), typing my blog post, and listening to the rain outside. I was so excited when I first woke up this morning because there was an actual thunderstorm going on, with lightening and everything. It's the type of event that you very rarely see during the beginning of January, but I love a good thunderstorm; my dogs, not so much.<br />
<br />
Today's recipe that I'll be sharing is for zucchini lasagna, which is my healthy alternative to regular lasagna, and is it every delicious! In fact, I found the leftovers to be better than the day I originally made it, mostly because this extra time allowed the flavors to absorb better. I also got to use my new mandolin slicer that I received as a Christmas gift! New kitchen gadgets are the best, I just always have the challenge of finding a spot for them. If you don't already have one yourself, and eat lots of vegetables, definitely look into getting one. It easily cuts prep time in half and is amazing!<br />
<br />
<em>FYI - Zucchinis are kind of small at the grocery stores right now, so you may have to adjust how many you buy in order to make this recipe. Just use your best judgment.</em><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Zucchini Lasagna</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mbXRjT3ItcGstTTg/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1
lb. 99% fat free, lean ground turkey (or ground beef)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">3
cloves garlic, minced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">½
cup green bell pepper, chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">½
a large yellow onion, chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2-3
zucchini’s thinly sliced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1
jar (24 oz.) pasta sauce (I used Prego Traditional)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
Tsp. oregano</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">½
tsp. basil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1-2
cups mozzarella cheese, shredded</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs98_RpNee66hjsS0xMmrt1MirDTQQAPX5m_vGc-Wkb7lUrWDb9MA6j39ZGDc3OfcmJm2kFlw2ak0QJh4hz4O-5dKW7qFZEzaA-yT4ZVM5Tg86kTcGe5mzeGceKpD4P0C9mRic_9QTR3g/s1600/IMG_4207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs98_RpNee66hjsS0xMmrt1MirDTQQAPX5m_vGc-Wkb7lUrWDb9MA6j39ZGDc3OfcmJm2kFlw2ak0QJh4hz4O-5dKW7qFZEzaA-yT4ZVM5Tg86kTcGe5mzeGceKpD4P0C9mRic_9QTR3g/s1600/IMG_4207.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Preheat
oven to 325 degrees and spray a 9x13” baking dish with a non-stick cooking
spray; set aside.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a large skillet, over medium heat, brown the ground turkey.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Once ready, add in the garlic, green pepper,
and onion and let sauté for 3-5 minutes.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Next, stir in the pasta sauce, oregano, and basil and let the mixture
come to a light boil. </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Once ready, remove
the sauce from the heat, sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, and stir around.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">To
assemble:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Place
a thin layer of the sauce mixture into the bottom of the baking dish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Layer zucchinis over the sauce and sprinkle
with some mozzarella cheese.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Feel free
to sprinkle on some more Parmesan cheese, if you so desire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After that, just repeat the layers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hint: I
made sure to save some sauce for the top layer, that way it helped cook the
last row of zucchini.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><br /></i></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkj284vrowFHfz7v2zdI_owC7eK9I9t-YH7bCvrjewbrC1JPSCtapex1k_OBdj_Yh3VCQPA1DFGnPtjq-Re_0ZNMamJ1U7H1gcBjPYq4iRPvHP0u_-WnxDVQHBxFTpXe_wHjkC2_wnBTU/s1600/IMG_4209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkj284vrowFHfz7v2zdI_owC7eK9I9t-YH7bCvrjewbrC1JPSCtapex1k_OBdj_Yh3VCQPA1DFGnPtjq-Re_0ZNMamJ1U7H1gcBjPYq4iRPvHP0u_-WnxDVQHBxFTpXe_wHjkC2_wnBTU/s1600/IMG_4209.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Bake
the lasagna for 15 minutes, covered with aluminum foil.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">After that, remove the foil, increase the
temperature to 350 degrees, and allow it to cook for another 15 minutes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Source: Adapted from <a href="http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/2013/09/healthy_recipes_zucchini_lasagna/">30 hand made days</a>Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-68208641530000376312014-01-09T09:42:00.003-08:002014-01-09T09:45:19.181-08:00Spinach & White Cheddar Chicken Burger<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi93cqxR1r2Re9IXwOHbzCmpUVR8Ld0O-elY7BeBg3qIMVHZO-Vanw29GqNoPNGXYRhHiqayfVs1mrRQ00Thp_bK7zOIuXHDDETrhGFfKTd6KsSdGzaKm9IE0b7lliuSjcwMWBHUvOJ0jo/s1600/Spinach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi93cqxR1r2Re9IXwOHbzCmpUVR8Ld0O-elY7BeBg3qIMVHZO-Vanw29GqNoPNGXYRhHiqayfVs1mrRQ00Thp_bK7zOIuXHDDETrhGFfKTd6KsSdGzaKm9IE0b7lliuSjcwMWBHUvOJ0jo/s1600/Spinach.jpg" height="386" width="640" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_1759046064"><span id="goog_65191619"></span><span id="goog_65191620"></span><br /></span>
I know that it's a little late into January already, but according to some, the new year brings resolutions; so ask yourself, are you up to the challenge? I wouldn't say that I actually made resolutions, so much as set some personal goals for the year 2014. So far, I've been doing a really good job sticking to them. However, the goals I set for myself aren't really anything too extravagant (like going to climb Mt. Everest) and that's ok because I usually end up adding to these throughout the year anyway. Plus, I change my goals a little bit each month. To me, there always has to be flexibility.<br />
<br />
Now, you might find yourself wondering what exactly my goals are. First off, let me just inform you that I have the type of personality that definitely likes to be challenged and most often it comes when I hear negativity from others. Typically, that type of thinking motivates me to try even harder. Oh yeah, you might not know this about me yet, but I like to prove people wrong; especially when it comes to what they think I'm capable of accomplishing. I may be little, but I'm pretty strong willed. I truly believe that nothing in life should ever be easy; you should have to constantly work at things to improve otherwise you will stay the same. <i>Unless of course you are on vacation, then it should always be easy and relaxing.</i><br />
<br />
So here are my goals to start the new year:<br />
1. With everything that goes on in my personal life, I want to challenge myself to find the time to update my blog at least 6-7 times a month, if not more.<br />
2. Now that I've recovered from my broken pelvis, I want to challenge myself to run at least 4 races this year. (I know that I'll be able to too, I've already signed up for 1. My problem though, is that I don't really like running with other people. I run for enjoyment.)<br />
3. To eat healthier. By this statement, I don't mean that I want to go on a diet and try to lose a bunch of weight, but rather make a conscience lifestyle change. (I'm not saying that I won't slip here and there, no one's perfect, and everyone likes cookies here and there, but I just want to become more aware of what I put into my digestive system and attempt to eat less processed food.)<br />
<br />
On that note, I'd like to share today's recipe with you. Not only are these spinach and white cheddar chicken burgers healthy, but they're absolutely delicious! I ended up eating a burger and a half, which is unusual for me, but fine. Each chicken patty is under 200 calories, of course, this depends whether or not you put the burger on a bun and what extra toppings you end up using as garnish. I ended up eating my burger plain; mostly because I found that there was already enough seasoning within the burger itself. I'll definitely be making this again soon! Even the leftovers were delicious!<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Spinach & White Cheddar Chicken
Burgers</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mTDMtREQ0c1gxWnc/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1
package (about 1 ¼ lb.) lean ground chicken</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
oz. fresh baby spinach, wilted</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
- ½ of a small onion</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1
garlic clove</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
stalks of a green onion</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1
TBSP fresh parsley leaves</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1
cup, shredded sharp white cheddar cheese</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
tsp. balsamic vinegar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1
tsp. lemon juice</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
tsp. soy sauce</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
- ½ tsp. cayenne pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs (start out on the low end and add more if needed)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The
first thing that you’ll need to do is wilt your baby spinach leaves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is super easy to do, so don’t be intimidated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In order to wilt the leaves, place your
spinach into colander, in a sink, and pour boiling water over them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Drain well, and then squeeze the leaves out a
little, until they appear soft and wilted.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Now,
place the onion, green onion, garlic, parsley, and wilted spinach leaves into
the bowl of a food processor and pulse until fairly fine looking; be careful
not to completely puree.</span><br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Next,
in a medium to large bowl, add the chicken, the chopped up spinach mixture, and
all the remaining ingredients.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Using
clean hands, knead everything together until well combined.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">This is where you may need to add in more
panko bread crumbs, but only if the chicken is not holding together.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">(One way to tell if you need more crumbs is
if the chicken is sticking to your hands)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Once
the mixture is well combined, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray
with a little olive oil.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Now, form the
chicken into patties (it should make 6 depending on the size) and place onto
the prepared pan.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Cover loosely with
plastic wrap and then transfer the baking sheet into the refrigerator for about
an hour.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">This will allow time for the
flavors to set in.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When
ready to cook, set the oven to broil and allow the patties to cook for 7-9
minutes on each side.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Garnish as desired
and enjoy!</span><br />
<br />
Source: <a href="http://cookinwithsuperpickle.blogspot.com/2011/01/white-cheddar-and-spinach-chicken.html">Cookin' With Super Pickle</a>Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987662709200442482.post-60435418405580573092014-01-07T09:56:00.001-08:002014-01-07T16:46:39.984-08:00Chicken and Lime Avocado Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gYT9AqhADuU/Uswln9zTESI/AAAAAAAABhw/cbPQVGFOaUs/s1600/Chicken+and+Lime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gYT9AqhADuU/Uswln9zTESI/AAAAAAAABhw/cbPQVGFOaUs/s1600/Chicken+and+Lime.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once again I sadly disappeared for awhile and I'm sorry.<br />
<br />
The past two weeks have just been so hectic, yet so much fun at the same time! Things are finally starting to settle down. Between traveling, visiting family and friends, being sick with the flu, the excitement of the holidays, eating too much, packing and unpacking, and taking down Christmas decorations, I've been exhausted. However, I think I've finally recovered and am pretty much back to my usual schedule. <br />
<br />
I hope you don't mind, but I'm going to take a minute or two right now, and share with you a little bit about what I've been up to lately. If you want to just skip right down to the tasty recipe though, please feel free. <br />
<br />
As I previously mentioned in a post or two, Jeff and I traveled to Michigan over the holidays, and if any of you happen to live up in that region, or have been keeping up with the nation's weather reports, then you already know that the northern states are getting slammed pretty hard with severe weather. It actually began to go downhill the day we arrived. Literally, the moment we crossed the state line into Michigan, a huge ice storm began. <br />
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The storm ended up causing us, and thousands of others throughout the state, to actually lose electricity due to all the down power lines that collapsed under the pressure of the ice. I'm not going to complain about the ice though, because luckily for us we only lost power for about 3-4 hours, whereas some of my other family members and friends lost it for about 4 days! Overall it was a big mess, and I know it ruined a lot of people's Christmas celebrations.<br />
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The weather didn't stop there either, later that week, as we went from Jeff's parent's house, to my grandma's house, and then our friend's house, the temperatures continued to drop and more and more snow started to fall. The day we decided to head back to North Carolina was probably not the best day to choose from, but I'm glad we did. Apparently, at least from what I've been seeing and hearing, it's just getting worse and worse up there. The ride home was miserable too. Jeff and I both had the flu and we ended up driving through severe snow storms the entire way back. It was so bad that at some points we couldn't even see the road, or tell if we were on it. In addition to being sick, and driving through the snow, we passed at least 30 or more cars and semi-trucks that had slid off the road, plus, we encountered quite a few traffic standstills, ugh! One standstill, which we hit in Ohio, involved me actually putting the car into park, on the expressway, for 2 straight hours. The journey home, that should have only taken twelve hours, ended up taking about eighteen. I usually wouldn't have minded, but we were both sick, plus we had our two little dogs with us.<br />
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On a brighter note, we are home and had a great time visiting our family and friends! <br />
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I'm also all unpacked, decorations are taken down, laundry is done, and I'm feeling fully healthy again and ready to take on the new year! I know I haven't posted my workout calendar for January yet, and I'm sorry because I know that some of you take ideas from it. So far this year I've just been kind of doing whatever comes to mind, mostly because I haven't had the time to sit down and create anything. I'll do my best to get a calendar made today though and hopefully it will be posted soon; better late than never I always say!<br />
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Ok..... enough about my holiday, now it's time to share a delicious and healthy recipe that I made for dinner the other night. <br />
<br />
Lately, I have found so many wonderful looking recipes that I've been wanting to try out, but have been afraid to do so. This is mostly because, like me, Jeff can be a pretty picky eater, especially when it comes to healthier foods. Over the holidays though, he informed me that he'd be willing to try out whatever I make; which had me super excited! I got started on our weekly menu right away. However, looking back now, I have to admit that this was probably not the best recipe to begin with; especially since I was trying to convince him that healthy meals are delicious. You see, Jeff is not really, nor has he ever really been a big fan of fruits or vegetables, especially the lesser known ones, and this recipe contains avocados. Part of me thought that it would be safe though, because he likes guacamole; I was wrong. After dinner, Jeff told me that it wasn't a terrible meal, it just wasn't for him. I on the other hand loved it, and would definitely make it again! To me, it was a perfect combination of flavors, and everything that I enjoy in one dish!<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Chicken and Lime Avocado Salad<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5HbmyLMtU5mbTEtUWI2cFkxYVE/edit?usp=sharing">Printer-Friendly Version</a></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
cups chicken, cooked and shredded (size is up to you)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
medium avocados, diced into bite size pieces<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
TBSP. lime juice, freshly squeezed<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Salt<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">¼
cup green onion, finely sliced<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">½
cup cilantro, finely chopped<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2
TBSP. light mayo<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">(<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">To make the dressing</i>)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">In
a small bowl, combine the mayo and 1 TBSP. of the freshly squeezed lime
juice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mix the two ingredients together
(it’s really that easy).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">After
that, place the diced avocados into a medium bowl and add in the remaining 1
TBSP. of the freshly squeezed lime juice and sprinkle on some salt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now, gently mix around the avocados until they
are evenly coated; set aside.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span> </div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Place
the chicken and green onions into a separate bowl and then add in the dressing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Once ready, toss the ingredients together
until everything is well coated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span> </div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>After
that, add in the avocado and gently mix around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Lastly, place in the chopped cilantro and continue to mix around until
the salad is just combined.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Serve
immediately or chill in the refrigerator!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Source: <a href="http://www.kalynskitchen.com/2012/05/recipe-for-chicken-and-avocado-salad.html">Kalyn's Kitchen</a></div>
Jamiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00093467493874681100noreply@blogger.com0