Divas Can Cook

We're getting a makeover!!!

2011-08-23T09:47:00.000-07:00

Hey huns!!

It's been a couple weeks since I've posted a recipe but don't worry, I haven't abandoned you! I'm updating, remodeling & migrating my blog to make it more user-friendly and whole bunch of other cool stuff.

I hope to be back in action in a couple weeks and I've got some great stuff to share!! So don't you go anywhere!

Thank you all for your patience!!

XO; )

Monique

Pizza in casserole form...

2011-08-11T10:44:00.000-07:00

Easy Pizza Casserole

Pizza casserole is one of those recipes that every mom should have in her stash. It's an easy go-to, family meal when you need something that everyone will enjoy.

Throw together a quick salad and some garlic sticks and dinner is ready in a flash. (this is what I had for dinner tonight) My three-year-old said "I just love this so much" lol

I love this recipe for a lot of reasons, one being that it's so easy to switch up the ingredients and create a whole new meal.

For a more adult twist, I'll make white pizza casserole with spinach, grilled chicken, caramelized onions, mozzarella, white cheddar cheese, and white wine sauce. It's soooo good! Almost sinful.

If you want me to do that recipe leave me a lil note in the comment box below.

Ingredients:

3 cup dry spiral pasta, uncooked

2 tablespoon parmesan cheese, plus more if desired

1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1/3 white onion, diced

1/2 green bell pepper, diced

2-3 garlic cloves, minced

olive oil

1/2 pound ground turkey (can use beef)

1 smoked turkey dinner sausage link (can use pepperoni or italian sausage)

2 cups pizza sauce (I used half pizza sauce and half tomato cheese margahetta pasta sauce)

1 cup cheese, plus more if desired (I used white cheddar and pizza cheese blend)

OPTIONAL* feel free to add in any other favorite pizza toppings like black olives, mushrooms, etc.

Watch me make this pizza casserole for you from start to finish!

Toddler Approved Sweet Veggie Muffins

2011-08-03T07:39:00.000-07:00

Sweet muffins loaded with carrots, zucchini and squash!

Moist Sweet Veggie Muffins

Squash and zucchini is everywhere!! I've been taking full advantage by making recipes like this and this oh and this one too, to name a few.

Yummy! Can you see those specks of cinnamon...

So I might as well add these sweet, moist vegetable muffins to the list. My toddler asked me to make these muffins for him last week. I don't know why I just light up when he asks me to make him things. I love cooking for my lil mook mook.

Anyway, I use to make these vegetable muffins for him in mini-form all the time when he was one. I couldn't believe he still remembered them. I guess seeing all the squash and zucchini piled up on the counter jogged his memory.

Summer is so colorful!
This muffin recipe is great for using up all that extra produce
from the garden and it freezes beautifully!

These muffins are loaded with sweet carrots, zucchini, and squash with a sweet, cinnamon taste. If you like quick breads like banana bread, zucchini bread, apple bread and things like that, then you will love these muffins!

These veggie muffins make the house smell so good!

If you're a veggie hater, don't worry about tasting any veggies in this recipe. My son says "it just tastes like cake" : )

INGREDIENTS ( makes roughly 24 muffins)
3 cups cake flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ginger
3 eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup carrots, finely shredded
1 cup zucchini, finely shredded
1/2-1 cup squash, finely shredded

Preheat oven to 325. Bake for 18-20 minutes

Watch me make these moist, sweet veggie muffins from start to finish just for you!

*note* Feel free to reduce or substitute the sugar if desired. Shredded apples or applesauce makes a great natural sweetener as do honey.

Easy Oven Fried Chicken....

2011-07-29T13:34:00.000-07:00

Crispy, Easy, Oven Fried Chicken

Easy Oven Fried Chicken

When was the last time you sank your teeth down into a juicy, golden, crispy piece of oven fried chicken??

Well we've been doing that a lot around my house and I think we have officially given fried chicken the boot!

Don't get me wrong now I do love some southern fried chicken but I hate working with hot grease, the time it takes from start to finish and the smell of my kitchen afterwards. That is why I'd only make it a few times a year.

My husband actually prefers oven fried over deep fried. He says he likes that it doesn't have that greasiness to it, it's moister and that he doesn't have to go to work with his clothes smelling like a grandma's house for a week. LOL

Double breaded and ready for oven frying!!

I've played around with a few oven-fried chicken recipes and this one (a combination of my grandmothers and my regular fried chicken recipe) seems to be the one I'm sticking to for now. It fries so beautifully in the oven and never fails to get golden and crisp. I also like that it doesn't make the kitchen smokey like some oven fried chicken recipes have.

It's seasoned perfectly and smells soooo good when it's cooking. I hope that you and your fam will enjoy this recipe as much as we do!!

INGREDIENTS
2 lbs chicken, cut up

2 teaspoon seasoning salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/2 teaspoon white or black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika

1 egg
1/2 cup milk
2-3 dashes hot sauce (optional)

1 cup all- purpose flour

2-3 Tablespoons butter (melted)
2 Tablespoons olive oil

Watch me make this easy oven fried chicken from start to finish!

Roses In Ice....so simple...so elegant

2011-07-27T07:33:00.000-07:00

Fresh Roses Captured In Ice

Fresh Floral Ice Cubes

Pretty, little, dainty flowers suspended in ice. I just love how feminine these fresh flower ice cubes look and they are so easy and cheap to make. They instantly add that special touch to your garden wedding, baby shower, tea party, or romantic dinner.

The purer the water the clearer the ice will be.
I used boiled tap when I should have used boiled distilled.
Live and learn!

When making these floral ice cubes be sure to use only organic, edible flowers. Although your guest probably won't be munching on the flowers (it's mainly for show) you still want to make sure they are safe. The last thing you want to do is poison your guest or make pesticide-laced ice cubes.

Small blooms work best for making decorative, floral ice cubes

You can also use berries, herbs, or fruits. I love how slices of lemon, lime and oranges look suspened in ice. So spa-ish! Strawberries and mint leaves also looks great.

Fresh, floral ice cubes adds instant elegance to any drink

A list of common edible flowers/herbs are:
chamomile
roses
pansies
lavender
begonias
Marigolds
Carnations
Day Lilies
Borage
Mint
Jasmine
Honeysuckle
Lilac

INGREDIENTS
Distilled Water
Edible, Pesticide-free flowers, plants, herbs or fruit

Let's make these Fresh Floral Ice Cubes From Start to Finish!

Squash+Zucchini+Tomatoes=Trio of Perfect Flavors

2011-07-20T15:16:00.000-07:00

Flavorful Squash & Zucchini

Summer squash and zucchini

Sautéed squash and zucchini is one of my favorite side dishes for the summer. It's quick, easy, light, flavorful and goes so great with grilled meats. Not to mention there is something elegant about sauteed squash and zucchini.

I've become totally spoiled by the farmers market when it comes to purchasing produce but they had squash and zucchini on sale at Harris Teeter this week. I can't resist a sale so I got about 10 of each. Cheesy squash casserole and sweet, moist zucchini bread is in my future.

The onions and garlic in this dish really add a nice layer of flavor. That Italian seasoning and parmesan cheese adds the bang factor and the fresh tomatoes cools is all down for one delicious dish!

Perfectly cooked!

What are you waiting on, go grill up some fish or chicken and prepare this flavorful sautéed squash and zucchini on side!

NOTE: DO NOT OVERCOOK!!! The squash and zucchini should be tender but firm to the bite. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the squash and zucchini. I think I did mine between 4-6 minutes. Just keep checking it. Remember we want tender, yet firm to the bite.

INGREDIENTS
1/4 cup water
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 white onion, diced
1 zucchini
1 squash
1 Roma tomato, chopped

1/4 teaspoon salt (or season to preference)
1/8 teaspoon pepper (or season to preference
parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or season to preference)

Watch me make this flavorful sauteed squash and zucchini from start to finish!

What's In My Picnic Basket?

2011-07-18T07:17:00.000-07:00

This rare fall-like weather beckoned for an evening family picnic at the park today! I love spur of the moment picnics. They're always the best!! Whether you are making your own food or stopping to get some subs or chicken, check out my list below for some tips!

Here is my 5-Point Picnic Checklist for a wonderful picnic in the park.

1.) Bug Control
Pesky flies & bees can ruin a family picnic. Pack some bug repellent to keep them at bay.

2.) Clean Up Supplies
Always take a trash bag just in case you may need it. Hand sanitizer, wet wipes and damp washcloths (packed in a ziplock baggy) will probably come in handy.

3.) Picnic Basket & Blanket/Tablecloth
Choose a roomy, cooler picnic basket that will keep all of your items cold. Add ice packs if needed. Pack a picnic blanket that has a waterproof backing and stakes on the four corners to stake it into the ground. You may want to bring a tablecloth if you are eating on the picnic tables at the park.

4.) Food & Eating Supplies
I prefer to stick with easy, finger foods like wraps, chips, etc. They're easy to eat and cut down on the ned for utensils. Keep it simple.

5.) Safety
Safety first. Always. Hopefully a first aid kit won't be needed on your picnic but it's better to have one handy for common outdoor accidents like bug bites, sting, cuts, & scrapes. In my first aid kit I pack band-aid, cortisone cream, antibiotic ointment, allergy meds, pain relievers, epi-pen, etc.

I'm using the metro basket by picnic time. You can buy them at Target for $32.49 but I got it from the Ebay store Ebags for only $25 (including shipping) Gosh I love a discount!!!

Check out my video to see what I have packed in my picnic basket!

What do you take on your picnics???

Summer Cooking Tips

2011-07-14T18:35:00.000-07:00

Beating The Heat Of Summer Cooking

Many of us are starting to feel it. That hot summer sun that has a tendency to completely drain you. It's been hot AND humid here. I'm talking about the kind of dry heat that feels like it's taking your breath away the minute you step foot outside.

I won't lie, I'm totally LAZY in the summer and cooking is the first thing that gets cut down drastically. I can't even tell you how many times this month this conversation has been had in my house:

Husband: Are you cooking dinner tonight?
Me: No.

Luckily I'm married to a man that has no problem at all fixing himself a sandwich or bowl of cereal, but I know in the back of his mind he was probably hoping and praying that I snap out of it. Well I did finally snap out it.

Needless to say I now have a very happy hubby and a toddler who is thrilled that family dinner time is back in full-effect. I did miss it.

Here are a few tips that I'm using to make summer cooking a breeze.

1.) Plan a weekly menu

I usually follow this rule religiously to help make grocery shopping easier but I really slack in the summer. When making your list take advantage of the array of fruits and veggies that in season and on sale. Make dishes that can be served cold like pasta salads. Plan simple meals that are quick to prepare. I usually avoid things like lasagna, soups or anything that will require me to spend a lot of time in the kitchen.

Here was my dinner menu for this past week. Super simple and I didn't spend more than 45 minute per meal.

Monday- Grilled Tilapia, Yellow Rice, Cucumber Salad
Tuesday- Homemade Individual Veggie Pizzas, Grilled Corn on the cob
Wednesday- Steak Tacos (steak cooked in slow cooker), black beans, corn on the cob
Thursday-Pizza Hut Pasta & breadsticks
Friday- Grilled Chicken & Veggie Kabobs, White Rice

2.) Use the mornings & nights
It's normally cooler early in the mornings and at night. Use these cooler times of the day to prepare meals or to just chop up ingredients. I LOVE cooking/prepping at night for some reason. I open the door and windows and that cool air just blows in. I love the sounds of the crickets and frogs. When I cook at night it just feels a lot calmer. I prepared an easy turkey lasagna and garlic bread on Wednesday night and froze it in individual servings. This will be lunch for next week because I know we are all tired of sandwiches.

3.) Pull out the crock pot, microwave, toaster ovens etc.
Now is the time you will be thanking yourself for purchasing these items that you probably always forget to use. I swear by my crock pot. I seriously LOVE it....like...love it like a person. There is nothing as satisfying then throwing some ingredients in a pot, turning it on low and coming home 8 hours later to a hot, home cooked meal. Seriously, who invented this thing???? I also use my microwave a lot. I use it to steam veggies, heat up food, fry bacon, etc. Don't know where I'd be without it. These items do not put off a lot of heat compared to turning on the oven or stovetop so find recipes that utilize them.

4.) Grill it
The grill is a summer staple and for some it's a year 'round thing. The beauty of grilling foods, beside those sexy ass grill marks and fabulous taste, is that all the heat stays outside instead of in your kitchen. Almost anything can be prepared on the grill. I plan on getting pretty creative with the grill this season. I'm not really a "grill girl" because that's my hubby's domain, but I've got quiet a few recipes I'm ready to try out like grilled pancakes and peach glazed chicken.

5.) Crank up the air
I know a lot of energy-saving, green folks will frown upon this, but if you've ever been in the company of a hot woman in the kitchen... it's not a good thing. If I'm hot while I'm cooking I become evil and cranky at the drop of a dime. If you choose not to turn up the air then place a small oscillating fan directly on you to help cool you off and while you're at it pour yourself an ice cold drink.

I hope these tips help! If all else fails find a cooking buddy and take turns cooking dinner during the week. My sister-in-law and I use to do this a few years ago and it was AMAZING only having to worry about dinner twice a week. Hmmm....I think I will start that up again. Jenny are you ready????

How do you stay sane in the kitchen during the hot months??

Refreshing Kiwi Popsicles....ahhh Summer!

2011-07-11T14:53:00.000-07:00

Homemade Kiwi Popsicles: These things are addictive

Refreshing Kiwi Popsicles

The triple digits are starting to slowly show it's ugly face around these parts. It's been hot hot hot!!!!! The perfect time to break out those popsicle molds and start whipping up batches of yummy, homemade popsicles!!!

I love making my own pops. You can customize the ingredients, sneak in all kinda vegetable juices for the kiddos and not to mention, they're so freakin' easy, fun and cheap.

I just love how they still resemble kiwi!

Fresh fruit is EVERYWHERE this time of year so go to the Farmers Market and have at it. I got a ton of kiwi today and since it's scorching outside Kiwi popsicles are a must.

Kiwi is such a pretty fruit and loaded with good stuff!

Kiwi brings on the benefits!!Kiwi is a superfood and provides the body with lots of fiber, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients which has been shown to actually repair DNA ( I know quite a few people who could use some DNA repairing). Kiwi aides in regulating heartbeat and also great for skin, hair, nails, and teeth. (Thanks for the info webmd, you rock!)

I make kiwi popsicles a lot in the summer months. Something about the sweet & tart combination just totally refreshes me! And that gorgeous green color... mother nature you have truly outdone yourself!

INGREDIENTS (makes 4-6 popsicles depending on the size of mold)
4 ripe kiwi
1 1/2 cups pineapple juice, naturally sweetened
1/2 teaspoon sugar *optional* (you could also use honey, agave or more pineapple juice to make it sweeter naturally)

Watch me make these Refreshing Kiwi Popsicles from start to finish!

ENJOY!!!

Picking The Best Fruit...

2011-07-08T12:36:00.000-07:00

How To Choose The Best Fruit

It's happened to most of us. We go into the grocery store and buy some fruit only to get home, cut it open and realized it's either too ripe or waaay underripe. There isn't a big window between when a fruit is at it's perfect ripened state before it goes mushy and the flavor is compromised.

So how you do go about picking fruit that is sweet, juicy, firm and perfectly rippened?? There are few ways to tell using scent, color, feel, sound and of course, taste.

Here are a few ways to help you choose the best fruit in the bunch without having to taste it first!

Cantaloupe
A ripe cantaloupe will feel much heavier than you'd expect when you go to pick it up. It will have a sweet smell. The blossom end (the end opposite the stem end) will feel tender. A ripe cantaloupe has well defined netting on the skin and
will be an even orangish or golden color. Do not purchase cantaloupes that have bruises, dents or soft spots.

Honey Dew Melon
A ripe honeydew melon will feel heavy for it's size. They will also have a light fragrance. The skin should be a very pale yellowish-green. Do not purchased honey dew that has defined veins since this suggest that the honey dew has not rippened fully. A ripe honey dew will look smooth and have very fine veins on the skin when you runs your fingers over it.

Watermelon
Watermelon is one of the hardest fruits to tell the ripeness. They don't give us many signs to look for at the supermarket. And even the few signs of ripeness that they do give aren't always accurate. For watermelons you have to really get hands-on. If you've ever seen people knocking on watermelons then chances are they were checking for that dull thump that ripe watermelon have (if not, they have some serious to overcome). A ripe watermelon will not have a huge difference in the color of the stripes. It other words it won't look like the pretty dark green and light green striped watermelons you'd probably expect to be ripe. Look for little contrast between the the stripe. Although these tips may help, when it comes to watermelon you're mainly just gonna have to cross your fingers and wing it.

Berries
Color is a good indicator of ripeness in berries. Ripe strawberries will be bright red without any green or white color on the flesh. Blueberries should be a dark bluish- purple with a dull appearance. Ripe berries are have a bold color and are free of soft spots or blemishes. A ripe berry will also smell sweet.

Citrus (oranges, lemons, limes, etc.)

Have you ever peel an orange that was dry and bitter tasting? Chances are it was picked before it had a chance to ripen. Ripe citrus are smooth with a bright, uniform color. Avoid buying citrus with spots, bruises, blemishes, wrinkling, or uneven color on the peel. Ripe citrus will have a thin skin and feel heavy in your hands. It should not feel spongy or soft. Smell the citrus. You should be able to smell it's crisp scent whether it's an orange, lemon or lime.

Bananas
Bananas give us easy clues to let us know when they are at their optimum sweetness. A banana that had a thick skin, feels firm and looks greenish in color is under-ripe. A banana that begin to ripen is yellow with a little green on the ends. It is will sweet in taste but not as sweet as it will get. A perfectly ripe banana will be sweet in taste, have a thin skin, soft but not mushy to the touch, and will be yellow with a couple of brown spots. A banana with more brown spots that yellow spots is probably over-rip and mushy. However, even though over rip bananas are not very pretty, they are still very sweet and great for baking.

Kiwis

A ripe kiwi will look plump all over and feel firm, yet tender to the touch. Avoid kiwis that are starting to wrinkle, have soft spots, bruises, or feels mushy or hard. It should also have a very light fragrance (although sometimes hard to tell)

Pineapples
A ripe pineapple is golden yellow in color and will have a strong, sweet fragrance. If the pineapple has no scent then it is not ripe, leave it at the store. A ripe pineapple will feel firm without any soft spots. Look at the leaves. They should look healthy an green.

Avocados
A ripe avocado feel firm but still yields somewhat to gentle pressure. If you press the avocado and it feels soft and mushy it is over-riped. The skin should look healthy. It should have a plumped, wrinkled skin but not shriveled.

Time For Some Philly Sushi Rolls!!!

2011-07-07T19:58:00.000-07:00

Bangin' Philly Sushi Rolls

I'm a rookie when it comes to Sushi but I've been climbing the ranks fast by trying sushi every chance I get. Everybody told me to start with the philadelphia (philly) roll; rice, cream cheese and cucumber rolled inside of seaweed. Sounds simple enough.

I still LOVE getting the Philly roll when I go out but honestly I prefer my homemade version which uses smoked salmon flavored cream cheese. #YUM!!!

The sushi rice is well seasoned with vinegar, salt, and sugar. I really hate bland tasting sushi rice and I've noticed only a few sushi joints take the time to season the rice.

Making homemade sushi is so easy and there is something oddly relaxing about it. Or maybe it's just that I tend to make sushi when I'm home alone on rainy days with nothing else to do. It's total comfort food to me and since my hubby & son hates it, I don't have to share.

I can see a sushi party with my favorite divas in the near future. I just have to convince them that all sushi doesn't have to have raw fish in it.

INGREDIENTS
1 cup sushi rice
1 cup water
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1 Tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cucumber
Salmon flavored cream cheese
Wasabi sauce
Soy sauce
Nori Sheets

Watch me make these bangin' Philly Sushi Rolls from start to finish!!!

I did it!! I tried Mickey D's Mango Pineapple Smoothie...drumroll please

2011-07-06T17:07:00.000-07:00

I know I know..... I totally set myself up for addictions! After chatting with a few of my fabulous readers on my facebook fanpage I had no choice BUT to try out Mickey D's new pineapple mango smoothie!

I mean...it just seemed like the respectable thing to do (I have know idea what I'm talking about but just roll with me okay. I need an excuse.)

I know that I just recently beat my addiction with the strawberry real fruit smoothies, but I feel stronger now. Honestly I don't think I'll be throwing these mango pineapple smoothies back like the other ones.

The verdict: I LOVE THEM!!!

If you are a fan of all things pineappleish then you will definitely love these. They are sweet, hint of tartness, creamy, and oh so tropical. It really lifted my spirits after the McDonalds lady wouldn't honor my coupon (grrrrr)

Have you tried these smoothies yet? Which one is your favorite?

Soo...My Favorite Bottled Water Brand Is Murky Huh?

2011-07-05T17:27:00.000-07:00

I don't know how my cousin and I got on the subject of the best bottled water brands yesterday but it made for an interesting conversation and a pretty sad discovery.

I purchased a ton of bottled water for my 4th of July celebration. Now let me just say that yes, I am totally down with the going green movement of using your own water bottle. I usually only purchase bottled water if I'm out and about or having a get-together (ok I guess that's kind of lot), HOWEVER when I do, it HAS to be Dasani!!!!

I used to be a hardcore bottled water drinker back when it was the coolest thing ever to be seen with a bottle of water. I've tried sooooo many kinds but always went back to the smooth, crisp, clean taste of Dasani. Ahhh there is nothing more heavenly that cracking that top open and gulping down pure, ice cold water.....

Ok back to the lame convo I was having with my cousin who is so "earthy & researchy". She claimed that "her research" and "sources" says that Dasani has one of the nastiest water reservoirs and all these other horror stories about drinking bottled water.

I just brushed this aside while sipping on my Dasani because this is the same chick who refuses to use products from Proctor & Gamble because some church lady said they were devil worshipers.

Even though I had no intentions of straying from my favorite brand, I was curious to know what brand others preferred (hey! I was bored!) so I hit up google. I stumbled upon a bottled water scorecard from ewg.org. They rate bottled water based on how pure the water is, if the company is willing to disclose where the water comes from and how the water is treated.

What grade did my Dasani get? A big fat D : (

Most brands received D's and F's but there were 3 brands that got B's and one was Nestle's Pure Life!!! They are open about where their water comes from, passed the purification/water treatment test and also use advanced treatment.

Congrats Nestle!! You got me!!!!

With all that said.....I am now a Nestle Pure Life water drinker. And even though that water taste slightly like sitting pond to me, I can always respect a transparent food and beverage company, no pun intended.

Ok this post has totally made me really thirsty!

What's your favorite bottled water brand?

Summa Summa Summa Tiiiime!!!!

2011-07-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

Summer is here!!! Time for some good o'l summertime eating. Here are a few of my favorite hot weather foods on Yes Divas Can Cook!!! Stay tuned..more to be added!!

Happy Summer!!!

Drunken Melon Balls

Southern Deviled Eggs

Chicken Salad

Southern Fried Chicken

Blackberry Cobbler

Chocolate Crunch Ice Cream Cake

Classic Fruit Punch

Oven-Grilled BBQ Beef Ribs

Keylime Pie

Peach Cobbler

Creamy Potato Salad

Roasted Corn on the Cob

Southern Green Beans

Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Chip s

Southern Sweet Tea

Spicy Caribbean Honey Baked Salmon

Old-Fashioned Strawberry Lemonade

Figure-Friendly Fruit Pizza

Iced Coffee (Frappucino)

Didn't find the summer recipe you were looking for?

Try the search box at the top right. I may have forgot to add it to this lineup.

Banana Pudding Milkshake...Say What Chick-Fil-A?

2011-06-26T19:45:00.000-07:00

I love the person who thought of banana pudding in milkshake form!!

Banana Pudding Milkshake

If you follow me on facebook then you know how obsessed I am with Chick-fil-a's new banana pudding milkshake. Yall...like seriously...I was drinking one of those every single day!

It was like a milkshake full of comfort. It didn't matter how stressful my day had been I knew that all would be well once I got my banana pudding milkshake fix.

Then all of a sudden SOMEBODY(and I thank you) had to ruin it by sending me the calorie count ....780 calories!!! What in the milkshake hell!!!! I just lost my muffin top and I was not about to get her back....at least not before Thanksgiving.

I knew I had to stop but it was so hard!! It's not unusual for me become attached to fast food items. Not to long ago I kicked my McDonalds Real Fruit Smoothie addiction by recreating my own. That was exactly how I was going to handle this addiction! I would try to recreate Chick Fil-A's banana pudding milkshake!!!!

I played around with some ingredients and made it about 5 times before finally settling one that I thought was awesome (dare I say better) and had that same comfort appeal!!

I love this banana pudding milkshake and YES I think I am officially done buying them everyday. Well...not unless I'm out and about when the craving strikes.

I hope that you enjoy this recipe as much as I've been!!

Banana Pudding Milkshake (makes 1 serving)
1/4 cup plain soymilk
1 1/2 Tablespoons banana cream instant pudding mix
1 cup Homestyle, Slow Churned Vanilla Ice Cream (Edy's)
4-6 vanilla wafers, crushed
diced banana (optional)
Cool Whip (optional)
Cherry (optional)

Watch me make this banana pudding milkshake from start to finish!!

*Note* You can add in more pudding if you prefer a sweeter, stronger banana taste. If you do that you will also need to increase the soymilk and ice cream as well. Otherwise, you run the risk of just have pudding. (Made that mistake a lot during my recipe testing)

Drunken Melon Balls...Aaaahhh Summer Is Here!!!

2011-06-21T04:04:00.000-07:00

Give me these drunken melon balls, a good magazine and comfy porch swing
and I'm happy as a lark.

Who knew that letting melons chillax in a pool of triple sec, pineapple juice and raspberry vodka could make for such a refreshing summer treat.

I love making these in the summer time when melons are super sweet. Using the melon baller is a lot quicker than slicing the fruit up in my opinion. I keep the fruit ball cut-out close together to avoid too much wasted fruit.

I'm not really sure what the correct title is for these melon balls... vodka melon balls? Melons infused with vodka? Alcoholic fruit salad? Drunken melon balls? There are just too many names for this, which makes sense because there are soooo many ways to change this up simply by switching up the alcohol.

Around here we call them boozy balls just because it's so fun to say. Go a'head, say it. Isn't it fun? They also make super fun kabobs! Just thread them on a bamboo skewer sit them out on a platter and watch how fast they disappear. (Just make sure you make an alcohol free batch for the kiddos because I don't know too many kids that can resists round fruit on a stick)

These 21 and older melon balls go GREAT for a girls night in party, wedding brunch, cookouts or just lounging outside on a hot day.

Melon Balls waiting to soak in their vodka pineapple juice triple sec bath!

They have a light alcohol taste that still allows for the natural sweetness of the fruit to come through. You can certainly double the alcohol if you prefer it the other way around and hey, I'm not here to judge.

Ingredients (I had roughly 7 1/2 cups of melon balls)
1 small, seedless watermelon
1 cantaloupe
1 honey dew melon
1 cup pineapple juice
1 cup raspberry vodka (or your favorite fruit flavored vodka)
1/2 cup triple sec

Watch me make these drunken melon balls from start to finish

*note* If you are making this recipe when melons are out of season (which I highly do not recommend) or are not as sweet, you may need to add some simple syrup (sugar water) to the mixture. Don't use super ripe fruit that is mushy. Ick! It will be just fall apart on ya.

CUSTOMIZE IT!!! Add in whatever fruity alcohol you enjoy but keep it simple! You really can't screw this recipe up... well unless you just start mixing up all kinda weird and crazy stuff. The raspberry vodka and triple sec is just what I had on had. I love using midori which is a melon flavored liqueur or tequila, lime and triple sec for a margarita flavor.

Have fun and don't forget to drink (or eat in this case) responsibly! : )

Refreshing Old Fashioned Strawberry Lemonade

2011-06-14T19:36:00.000-07:00

I like to freeze this strawberry lemonade partially so that it gets slushy and super cold. So good!!

I don't know too many things that is as refreshing on sweltering days than a cold glass of homemade strawberry lemonade.

I'm talking pure, authentic strawberry lemonade. Not that artificial, bitter, chemically tasting stuff you get at most grocery stores.

Fresh, strawberries from the farmers market!

This recipe hit the spot if you are searching for a strawberry lemonade recipe that is smooth, pure of artificial dyes, flavors, and concentrates. It's sweet with just a nice hint of lemon.

(If you prefer a tart strawberry lemonade simply add more fresh lemon juice.)

INGREDIENTS
2 cups water
1 1/2- 2 cups sugar
zest of 2 lemons
1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 6-8 lemons)
25 large, fresh strawberries

6-7 cups of water (more or less to suit your taste)

Watch me make this strawberry lemonade recipe from start to finish!

MAKE IT BUBBLY!! Replace the water with sparkling water to make a fizzy strawberry lemonade

MAKE IT HARD!! Replace 1 or 2 cups of water with vodka or alcohol of your choice.

MAKE IT FROZEN!! Add in some of the strawberry pulp and place some water and ice into a blender (this will need to be done in batches unless you have a really large blender)

Farmer's Market Field Trip!!!!!

2011-06-10T13:08:00.000-07:00

I love the farmers market!!

Today has been warm with a constant breeze, a nice change to the humid, blazing hot weather we've had the past few days. It was the perfect day to hit up THE FARMERS MARKET!!!!!

I like grocery shopping but I LOVE farmers market shopping. It's actually pretty therapeutic and relaxing to me. I can take my time and stroll down the aisles checking out all the homemade creations and fresh farmed produced.

No need to wear makeup at the Farmers Market.
I think there is a rule that you can't because everyone always
looks a hot ass mess in this place....soo I joined in!!

There is just something about a farmers market that makes me want to "go greener", make pies and eat healthier. Since 95% of the produce is grown miles away from my home, it taste and look soooo much better than the stuff I get from the grocery store.

Every time I go I come back with something different whether it's fresh cheeses, organic produce or homemade jellies, it's always worth the trip.

This trip I snagged some GORGEOUS strawberries to make homemade strawberries and champagne jam. I've also been craving some strawberry lemonade and found some lemons for .25 cents!!

Check out my trip to the farmers market to see what else I picked up!

Do you shop at farmers markets??

Stuffed Bell Peppers

2011-06-01T15:59:00.000-07:00

Stuffed Bell Peppers:
Easy weekday dinner, fit for company!

Stuffed Bell Peppers

I was so happy to see green bell peppers on sale. Of course when I got them I couldn't think of anything I wanted to make. They sat there in the crisper drawer for a few days before I had to think of something quick before they started to get all wrinkly.

I pulled out my old recipe book that I made when I got married and there it was, a recipe for stuffed bell peppers that I got from a friends mom. I had these stuffed peppers at her house MANY years ago and thought they were pretty tasty so she gave me the recipe. I adapted the recipe slightly to suit my families taste.

The yummy filling for the stuffed green peppers

My hubby loves stuffed bell peppers and I can't believe out of the almost 9 years we've been married I've never thought to make them.

This recipe is so easy and hearty. The stuffing is full of ground turkey, smoked sausage, cheese, onions, tomatoes, garlic, peppers, and few savory seasonings.

INGREDIENTS

4 green bell peppers
water or chicken broth (to boil whole peppers in)
1/2 white onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 lb ground turkey
1 smoked turkey dinner sausage link, diced
1 1/2 cups rice, cooked
16 oz can of diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons parsley
1/2-1 teaspoon salt
1/2- 1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2- 1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2-1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2-3/4 cup cheddar cheese
3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese

Preheat oven to 350

Watch me make these Stuffed Bell Peppers from start to finish!!

*note* Adjust seasonings to suit your taste. Be sure to taste after each addition to prevent over-seasoning it. If you're using seasoned diced tomatoes you may want to cut back or omit some of the seasonings.

Japanese Cheesecake Recipe

2011-05-30T16:13:00.000-07:00

Homemade Japanese Cheesecake- My 2011 Birthday Cake

Japanese Cheesecake

Here's my birthday cake!!! Every year I make myself a birthday cake. It's always a cake that I've never tasted before and I eat the whole thing all by myself! Hey, it's my BIRTHDAAAAAY!!

This year I tackled the Japanese cheesecake!!! If you follow me on facebook then you know I've been wanting to make this cake for a while now. The whole idea of a cheesecake being creamy, yet fluffy and light intrigued me so much!

I must say, this cake did not disappoint! I'm so glad I tried it and will definitely be using it to make more stuff, like a new base for my strawberry shortcake and Japanese ice cream sandwiches (I saw these on tv and fell in love so stay tuned for that recipe)

Don't let the boring, plain look fool you. It does look kinda blah but once you sink your choppers into this bad boy you'll understand why so many people prefer this lighter, cakier version of cheesecake over the heavy, dense American version. (I still prefer my super heavy, fattening American cheesecake though : )

My hubby hated this cake and thought it was super gross lol (he's so unadventurous at times!)

This cake truly is a piece a heaven in my opinion. It's lightly sweetened, super light and "pillowy" with a creamy taste. I topped one side with a fine layer of powdered sugar and the other with an apricot spread and fresh strawberries. So good!

It's SO EASY to eat slice after slice since it's so airy and fluffy. One slice hardly seems like enough! The next time I make this I'll dust the entire cake with powdered sugar and a mixture of fresh fruits (strawberries, blueberries, peaches) in the center and serve with a dollop of homemade cool whip. Ahhh... the perfect, elegant ending to summer meal.

Japanese Cheesecake
Ingredients (adapted from food.com)
8 oz cream cheese (softened, room tempt.)
1/4 cup whole milk
1/2 cup powdered sugar, divided
1/4 cup cornstarch
3 egg, separated
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar

2-3 cups boiling water (to make the water bath)

Topping (optional)
2 tablespoons fruit preserve ( I used apricot)
1 tablespoon water (or enough to make is easily spreadable)
fresh strawberries, diced

Watch me make this Japanese Cheesecake recipe from start to finish!

Preheat oven to 350

Refrigerate leftovers.

Three Cheese Garden Pizza Recipe (Pampered Chef)

2011-05-26T14:03:00.000-07:00

Three Cheese Garden Pizza

My sister hosted a pampered chef party a couple of weeks ago and I totally was not expecting to walk away with a fabulous recipe.

To demonstrate the products, we made this quick, easy and delicious three cheese garden pizza! (I hear they make these pizzas a lot at pampered chef parties )Just by looking at the ingredients I knew I was gonna love it but I was surprised that my toddler loved it as well.

It doesn't have any sauce but I think next time I might add a tad bit, as well as use my own pizza dough recipe. I love the fact that it's loaded with some of my fav. fresh veggies like onions, tomatoes, and zucchini.

I made this for lunch and I served it with oven roasted corn on the cob and a garden salad. We invited the in-laws over and they all agreed it was a fabulous lunch. My hubby said he had energy all day after eating a lunch full of veghgies.

This three cheese garden pizza will be going into the recipe stash!!

*Note* Using a baking stone makes all the difference in the world!!! The crust is so crisp on the bottom as opposed to being soft when using a regular pan. I'm making this using my new Pampered Chef Bar Baking Stone! I'm in love with this thing!!!!

Three Cheese Garden Pizza (adapted from Pampered Chef)

INGREDIENTS
1 refrigerated pizza crust
1-2 Tablespoons olive oil
Cornmeal (optional)
2 cloves garlic
Mozzarella Cheese
Cheddar Cheese
Parmesan Cheese
2 small tomatoes, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1/2 small onion, diced
2-3 teaspoons Italian Seasoning

Watch me make this Three Cheese Garden Pizza from start to finish!

Cajun Fish and Savory Cheese Grits

2011-05-22T14:19:00.000-07:00

Cajun Fish and Savory Cheese Grits: Food for the soul

Cajun Fish and Savory Cheese Grits

Ahhhh fish and grits...a true southern comfort classic! There is just something about this dish that does it for me. It doesn't matter what I'm going through at the time, when I sit down to a bowl of flavorful, creamy cheese grits and cajun fish, everything feels "alright" Yep it's that deep for me lol.

These savory cheese grits are loaded with flavor!

This fish and grits dish was a big part of my childhood. We had it almost every week. There are so many ways to spin this recipe by adding different seasonings and cheeses to the grits or cooking the fish a different way, like deep frying in cornmeal.

Half n Half gives these grits a super creamy texture. Added spices, chicken broth and cheese kicks up the flavor.

INGREDIENTS
Savory Cheese Grits:
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup water
1/2 cup half n half
1/2 cup grits (5-minute Quick Cooking Grits)
1-2 Tablespoons butter
1/8 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 cheddar cheese
2 dashes hot sauce
salt to taste

Easy Cajun Fish: ( I never measure these ingredients. Just season only one side generously)
2 tilapia fillets
olive oil
2 cloves garlic
salt
cajun seasoning
old bay seasoning
parsley
black pepper
onion powder (optional)
oregano (optional)
butter

Watch me make this cajun fish and savory cheese grits from start to finish!

Wanna add more to this dish to make it even more hearty? Top the fish with diced and sauteed green and red peppers, green onions, tomatoes and mushrooms.

Serve as a complete meal or a add side dish of super sweet peas and buttered Texas toast. Ice cold sweet tea is must!!!

Tips * If the grits are too thick just add in a little more hot water or hot broth to thin them out.
Wash the pot immediately since grits can really cling to the sides of the pot and harden if left sitting.

Southern Chicken Salad

2011-05-13T16:44:00.000-07:00

Southern, Homestyle Chicken Salad

(basic but full of flavor)

It's so hard to get a homemade recipe for chicken salad if you ask people. Everyone always says "well...I don't know...I never measure when I make it." I always hate when people tell me that lol but I find myself saying the same thing. It really is one of those recipe that you just throw how much of each ingredient in that you like. I've been getting so many request for it, I thought I'd make it and try to write down everything I put in it.

Chicken salad sandwiches is one of my favorite kinds of sandwich. I'm pretty picky when it comes to chicken salad. I like it to look and taste a certain way. The right kind of bread you put it on is equally important: Buttery bakery croissants baby!!!

Although this chicken salad recipe is very basic, it is still creamy and full of flavor, yet still enough room to customize it just the way you like. It has just the right amount of crunch from the onions and celery with that perfect blend of spice from the celery salt and other seasonings. Not to mention that kick of light sweetness from the sweet relish.

If you like a sweet & crunchy chicken salad go ahead and throw in some cranberries, grapes, raisins or nuts.

As with all chicken salad recipes be sure to season a little at a time, tasting after each seasoning, until you get the taste you love.

INGREDIENTS: (makes 6-10 sandwiches depending on how much filling you like. I like a lot!)

3 chicken breast, flattened

1 cup chicken broth

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon celery salt

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4-1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1 stalk of celery, diced

1/2 small white onion, diced

5 hard boiled eggs, diced

1 3/4 cups Mayonnaise (may need more of less. I used 1 cup Dukes and 3/4 cup Helmans)
1/4 cup sweet relish

1/2 teaspoon black pepper (plus more if desired)

1/4-1/2 teaspoon onion powder (plus more if desire)

1/4-1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (plus more if desired)

celery salt to taste

Butter Bakery Croissants (get mine from Walmart bakery)

Lettuce

Tomato

Watch me make this southern, homestyle chicken salad from start to finish!

Refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight for flavors to mix and mingle.

Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies (Target)

2011-05-10T16:51:00.000-07:00

Toll House Freshly Baked Chocolate Chip Cookies

(from Target)

I was in Target last week when I strolled across these babies, Toll House Freshly Baked Chocolate Chip Cookies. Ok I'll admit the photo of the big, chewy looking cookies on the package totally sold me. They didn't look too bad in the package either so I thought, what the heck, I've never had an awful chocolate chip cookie anyway.

I ripped into them as soon as I got home and was pretty darn amazed when I took that first bite! For a ready-made cookie they were so good! I could seriously heat these up, throw them on a cooling rack and say I made them from scratch and nobody (well almost nobody) could prove me wrong!

Since then, I have purchased them three times and the last time I got them they were just "ok". They tasted kinda burnt. Since they are supposedly made in the store's bakery I guess I got an overcooked batch, but that will not stop me from buying in the future.

They work GREAT for making ice cream cookie sandwiches! I've stocked my freezer up with them for quick, hot weather treats.

Toll House you did the damn thang on these chocolate chip cookies!!

Have you tried them out yet????

Mother's Day Brunch Ideas

2011-05-06T17:05:00.000-07:00

Happy Mommy's Day to all of my fabulous, loving & nurturing mothers out there!!!! We so rock and there really isn't a better job to have!

Here are a few blog favorite recipes to whip up for mom on the start of her special day.

P.S. And don't forget to include a handmade card telling her how much she is loved and appreciated!

Breakfast/ Brunch in bed is always a good start to a day of pampering!

Banana Nut Pancakes
This just says love!!

Diner-Style French Toast
Pair with a side of scrambled eggs, sausage, fresh chopped fruit, milk and a bouquet of flowers and breakfast is a success!

Real Fruit Smoothie
This creamy smoothie pairs up well with an omelet breakfast.

Baked Omelet
Make mom feel like she has just stepped into 5-star dining with this easy & impressive omelette.

Fruit Salsa w/ Cinnamon Chips
The perfect snacking food: healthy & addictive!

Buttermilk Breakfast Biscuits
Smother these buttery biscuits with white sausage gravy for a hearty breakfast!

Chocolate Covered Strawberries
What women doesn't feel pretty & pampered eating chocolate covered strawberries?

Check out more delicious Mother's Day recipes in the index!